Meaning of REAL LIFE by Frank Ocean

In Frank Ocean's captivating song "Real Life," he takes us on a journey through the complexities and realities of life. The song delves into various themes that are both relatable and thought-provoking. From the chorus to the verses, each lyric adds a new layer to the multifaceted exploration of existence.The chorus, "That's real life, that's real life, that's real, real life," sets the overall theme of authenticity and truth. It reminds us that despite our desires for a simpler and easier life, we must confront the real challenges and complexities that come our way. The repetition of the word "real" emphasizes the importance of embracing the truth, even when it's not always pleasant.One standout lyric that contributes to the song's theme is, "That's the sweet life you choose, The sweet life you choose, That's the sweet life you choose, The sweet life you choose, That's the sweet life." This lyric brings a sense of irony to the song. While it may seem like living a sweet life, filled with luxury and comfort, is ideal, the song suggests that it may not bring genuine happiness. It implies that one's choices in life shape their perception of what is truly sweet and fulfilling.Another significant lyric is, "You can't keep lying to the people that you trust, Cause soon that trust'll fade and you'll be good as dust." This line uncovers the theme of honesty and the consequences of deceit. It reminds us that maintaining trust is crucial in relationships. The metaphorical image of being "good as dust" suggests that once trust is broken, it can be challenging to rebuild or regain the same level of connection.The verse, "In that damn apartment, you always wanna be gone," explores the theme of solitude and the longing for personal space and independence. It reflects on the feeling of desiring solitude but also acknowledges the discomfort that it can bring. This lyric suggests that while being alone can be liberating, it can also lead to feelings of emptiness if it becomes the constant state of being.The bridge, with the repetition of "But I love it, Love it, love it, Love it, love it, Love," introduces the theme of conflicting emotions. It highlights the complex nature of life and how we can simultaneously love and be frustrated with the aspects that define our existence. This line encourages us to embrace the contradictions and accept the messiness of life.The outro lyric, "Until the lift gets stuck, Lifting up, lifting up, Lifting up," signifies the concept of constant change and the uncertainty that accompanies it. It symbolizes the ups and downs of life, reminding us that even when we strive for progress and growth, there will always be unforeseen challenges along the way. The image of the lift getting stuck represents the moments when we feel stuck or stagnant in our journey, despite the desire to keep moving forward.Overall, the overarching theme of "Real Life" is the unfiltered and genuine exploration of the human experience. It highlights the importance of embracing the complexities, embracing truth, and navigating the various challenges and emotions that come with living. The song encourages us to find beauty in the messiness and to appreciate the authenticity of our own unique journeys.