Meaning of Summer Remains by Frank Ocean

The Frank Ocean song, 'Summer Remains', carries a hauntingly beautiful melody that lingers in the mind long after it ends. The overall theme of the song revolves around the transient nature of time and the bittersweet memories that summer brings. Ocean weaves a lyrical tapestry that evokes a sense of longing, nostalgia, and the inevitable passage of seasons.One standout lyric that embodies this theme is "Tide stole my youth, the creases in my brow ain't tan lines." This line suggests that time, like the ebbing tide, can wash away the carefree innocence of youth. The image of the creases in the brow symbolizes the burdens and worries that come with age, contrasting starkly against the carefree days of summer. This lyric highlights the fleeting nature of time and the inevitable passage of youth, which is a recurring theme in the song.Another powerful lyric that contributes to the song's themes is "The sun burned black and blue on your green eyes." Here, Ocean masterfully juxtaposes the warmth and light of the sun against the cool and serene beauty of green eyes. This lyric portrays a sense of contrast and balance, suggesting that even the most vibrant summer days have a touch of melancholy. It speaks to the idea that happiness and sadness can coexist, just as summer and its inevitable end are intertwined.In addition, the refrain "It ain't natural" appears twice throughout the song, emphasizing a deeper layer of meaning. This repetition implies that the passing of time and the changing of seasons may be an integral part of life's natural cycle, but it still feels unnatural and difficult to accept. This lyric invites contemplation on the paradoxical nature of existence, where beauty and sadness often walk hand in hand.Through these standout lyrics, 'Summer Remains' explores various imaginative themes that tie back to its overarching theme. One unexpected theme is the notion of transient beauty. The song suggests that the transitory nature of summer and its memories only amplifies their allure. Just as blooming jungle flowers must be left in the ground, some things are destined to be more beautiful in their ephemeral state. It is in the impermanence that their true essence is captured.Another imaginative theme that emerges is the dichotomy between youth and maturity. The lyrics imply that the freedom and joy experienced during summer's prime can diminish over time, leaving behind a trace of longing. The inexorable passage of seasons becomes a metaphor for the inevitable changes that occur as we transition from youth to adulthood. It reminds us to cherish our youth and the fleeting moments of joy it brings.Lastly, 'Summer Remains' also touches upon the intricate connection between happiness and sorrow. The lyrics convey the idea that one cannot fully appreciate happiness without acknowledging the existence of sadness. Summer, with its warmth and vibrancy, is juxtaposed against the sadness of its eventual end. This theme prompts reflection on the spectrum of human emotions and reminds us that it is through experiencing both sorrow and joy that we truly come alive.In conclusion, 'Summer Remains' encapsulates the wistful essence of fleeting moments and the powerful impact they leave on our lives. Through clever and imaginative lyrics, the song explores themes of transient beauty, the passage of time, youth and maturity, and the interplay of happiness and sadness. Frank Ocean's evocative storytelling invites the listener to contemplate the delicate balance between existence and the inevitable changes that come with each passing season.