Meaning of Scared of Beautiful by Frank Ocean

In Frank Ocean's captivating song "Scared of Beautiful," the artist delves into the complexities of fear and self-perception. The overall theme of the song revolves around our apprehension towards embracing our own beauty and the discomfort that arises from confronting our true selves. Ocean skillfully weaves together poignant lyrics that highlight different aspects of this theme, each representing unique and unexpected perspectives.One standout lyric that resonates deeply is "You can't tell me why you're so terrified of beautiful." This line explores the paradoxical nature of our fear, as we often find ourselves avoiding beauty despite its allure. It suggests that beauty can be intimidating, for it reveals vulnerabilities and insecurities that we would rather hide. It is, therefore, not simply an appreciation of beauty that scares us but the potential turmoil it may incite within our own hearts.Another lyric that adds depth to the song's theme is "Scared of the good more than the evil." This line brings into focus our fear of goodness and the responsibility it carries. It suggests that we may fear the expectations that accompany being good, as being good requires vulnerability, accountability, and potential disappointment. The fear of failing to meet these expectations can prevent us from fully embracing and expressing our true selves.The lyric "Scared of the light more than the dark" further enhances the song's theme by highlighting our inclination to shy away from the brightness of truth and self-awareness. Often, we find comfort in the familiar and the known, even if it means residing in the darkness of our fears and doubts. The light represents the uncomfortable and illuminating aspects of our identity, forcing us to confront our flaws and vulnerabilities. In this sense, the darkness becomes a sanctuary where we can hide from the harsh realities that lie within the light.The line "Scared of the truth so much more than the lie" delves even deeper into the fear of confronting reality. It suggests that we often prefer to believe the comforting lies we tell ourselves rather than facing uncomfortable truths. The truth can be confronting and challenging, requiring us to take responsibility for our actions, confront our flaws, and perhaps make difficult changes. By clinging to lies, we avoid the discomfort that comes with self-improvement and growth.In the bridge of the song, Ocean incorporates the famous phrase "Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?" made popular by the fairy tale of Snow White. This phrase introduces the idea of external validation and the perception of beauty through the eyes of others. The mirror, traditionally associated with vanity, reflects the external portrayal of beauty and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The lyric then takes an unexpected twist by pointing out the unfairness of the mirror towards all of the beautiful ones. This suggests that even those considered beautiful may feel the weight of judgment and expectations, perpetuating the cycle of fear and self-doubt.Overall, Frank Ocean's "Scared of Beautiful" delves into the complexities of self-perception and fear. The song encapsulates the universal struggle of embracing our own beauty and facing our vulnerabilities. Through profound and unexpected lyrics, Ocean reminds us of the fears that hinder our personal growth and the importance of self-acceptance. It serves as a poignant reminder to strive for self-compassion and to embrace the beauty within ourselves, even when it seems intimidating.