Meaning of Summer Remains by Frank Ocean

In Frank Ocean's mesmerizing song "Summer Remains," the artist delves into themes of loss, the passage of time, and the ephemeral nature of love. This hauntingly beautiful composition incorporates vivid and evocative lyrics that serve as conduits for exploring multiple imaginative themes within the overarching theme of the song.The opening verse immediately sets the tone for the introspective journey that lies ahead. When Ocean sings, "My right hand to God, left hand holding the jewels, and I'm swearing up and down," it creates a juxtaposition between divinity and earthly possessions. This lyric presents the theme of searching for significance and trying to attach meaning to material things, ultimately questioning the futility of such pursuits.The song continues with Ocean lamenting the stolen youth and the toll that time has taken on him, as he sings, "The tide stole my youth, the creases in my brow ain't tan lines, saltwater swole my eyes." Here, the theme of time passing and its impact on personal growth and perception is explored. The lyrics remind us that youthfulness is transient and that the natural forces of life can leave indelible marks on our physical and emotional selves.Moving forward, Ocean sings, "The sun burnt me black and blue...Too cold this side of June." These lyrics highlight the conflict between opposing forces—the sun's scorching heat and the biting cold. This serves as a metaphor for the extremes that love can subject us to—the passion and intensity juxtaposed with heartbreak and emotional distance. The theme here delves into the tumultuous nature of relationships and the inherent volatility that lies within them.In the refrain, Ocean repeatedly declares, "It ain't natural, that ain't natural." This lyric amplifies the overarching theme, emphasizing the unnatural aspects of the situations described throughout the song. It alludes to the inherent complexities and contradictions present in love and human nature, urging us to question the true essence of what is deemed "natural."As the song progresses, Ocean illustrates the delicate balance between vulnerability and self-protection within relationships, singing, "Right hand in yours, left hand holding the jewels." This lyric encapsulates the theme of seeking connection while also safeguarding one's personal aspirations and desires. It speaks to the delicate dance between opening oneself up to love and maintaining a sense of autonomy.The verse continues with Ocean cautioning against attempting to alter something beautiful, likening it to a jungle flower. The theme of acceptance shines through here, reminding us that sometimes, love is best left untamed and untouched. This heightens the motif of embracing the natural course of relationships and resisting the urge to manipulate or control their trajectory.In the bridge, Ocean declares, "I'll rebel, I'll rebel, but this ain't natural." This juxtaposition of rebellion with the recognition of unnaturalness adds a layer of complexity to the exploration of love's contradictions. It highlights the struggle between asserting one's individuality and surrendering to the natural inclinations and ebbs and flows of emotional connections.The final verse poetically brings the themes full circle as Ocean reflects on the fleeting nature of love and the struggles faced during summertime—the season often associated with joy and freedom. Here, he muses, "When we're under the palm trees, thinking heaven must be somewhere under these palm trees...At least we had the palm trees to save us from the ray beams, but not even the palm trees could save us from the flames." This lyrical voyage explores the duality of paradise and suffering, suggesting that even the most idyllic settings cannot shield us from the inevitable storms of heartache and loss. It encapsulates the central theme of transience and acceptance of life's ups and downs.In summary, Frank Ocean's "Summer Remains" invites listeners on a thought-provoking journey encompassing loss, the passage of time, and the fragility of love. Through imaginative lyrics that explore unexpected themes, Ocean challenges our preconceptions about love, relationships, and the transient nature of existence. This introspective ballad serves as a poignant reminder to embrace the joys and imperfections that come with the passing seasons of our lives.