Meaning of Sideways by Frank Ocean

In Frank Ocean's song "Sideways," the overall theme revolves around the concept of duality and the fluidity of life. The lyrics challenge traditional notions of success, explore self-discovery, and reflect on the complexities of relationships. Within this framework, there are several standout lyrics that contribute to the development of unique and unexpected themes.The first lyric that catches our attention is "I was in all them hours in it, 10K, tokin' mid strokes." This line suggests a sense of dedication and commitment to a task, symbolized by the mention of hours spent. However, the reference to "10K" and "mid strokes" introduces a subtle commentary on materialism and the pursuit of pleasure. This theme resonates throughout the song, highlighting the struggle between seeking external validation and finding fulfillment within oneself.Another notable lyric is "Outta wedlock, God forgive it, then forget it, 'cause only God can forget it." Here, Ocean delves into the complexities of morality and religious beliefs. The reference to wedlock and forgiveness opens up discussions around societal expectations and the freedom to make mistakes. This lyric explores the theme of redemption and the idea that only a higher power can truly forgive and forget, suggesting that humans should focus on moving forward rather than dwelling on past errors.The line "Said the dick long as a swan neck, put some real swans in the pond then" introduces an unexpected theme of power dynamics and the use of symbolism. The reference to a "swan neck" implies elegance and grace, contrasting with the image of real swans in a pond. This lyric invites listeners to consider the impact of perceived power versus genuine influence. It suggests that true power lies not in grandiose displays but in the ability to cultivate lasting change and growth."Fell asleep in the foreign after the free show at the Garden, let the LED roll, deer hunter, leave the stage, watch it from the audience" is another striking lyric with underlying themes of escapism and self-reflection. The mention of falling asleep in a foreign place represents detachment from reality and the desire to escape one's circumstances. The LED roll and the mention of the deer hunter evoke images of a cinematic experience, suggesting the act of observing life from the sidelines rather than actively participating. This lyric brings forth the theme of introspection and the need to step back and reflect on one's actions and choices.Finally, the chorus, "When I'm up, they gon' hate; when I'm sideways, yeah, I set me straight; when I'm down, they gon' celebrate; sittin' sideways, too sideways; nah, it's not too late," encapsulates the central theme of duality and perception. It highlights the paradoxical nature of human existence, where success breeds envy and failure elicits celebration. The concept of sitting sideways represents the idea of embracing life from a different perspective, challenging conventional norms, and finding personal fulfillment.In conclusion, "Sideways" by Frank Ocean is a song that explores the fluidity and interconnectedness of various themes. The standout lyrics examined above contribute to the overarching theme of duality by shedding light on unexpected concepts such as materialism, morality, power dynamics, escapism, introspection, and perception. Frank Ocean's thought-provoking lyrics encourage listeners to reflect on the complexities of life and challenge societal expectations. Ultimately, the song reminds us to embrace the journey, navigate the highs and lows, and seek fulfillment on our own terms.