Meaning of These Days by Frank Ocean

The Frank Ocean song titled 'These Days' is a complex and introspective track that delves into various themes revolving around personal experiences and self-discovery. The song combines elements of vulnerability, nostalgia, and social commentary, creating a multi-layered narrative that can be interpreted in different ways.One standout lyric in the song is "Caught an eel when I was fishin', that shit shocked me." This line, seemingly random at first glance, can be seen as a metaphor for unexpected experiences and encounters in life. It represents the shock and surprise we often feel when faced with situations that challenge our preconceived notions or comfort zones. This theme of embracing the unknown and embracing the moments that shock us is reinforced throughout the song.Another significant lyric is "Felt like I was in this fantasy, I fell in love but you didn't keep it real with me." This line highlights the notion of illusion and disappointment in relationships. It explores the idea that sometimes we can be completely enthralled by a person or a situation, only to realize that our perception was not aligned with reality. This theme of shattered expectations and the pain it brings is a recurrent motif throughout 'These Days.'The line "Plate of painkillers almost kill me, then Hodgy came to smoke some weed and healed me" portrays the dichotomy of escape and healing. It suggests that individuals often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms to deal with their pain, seeking temporary relief only to find themselves sinking deeper. However, the unexpected presence of Hodgy and the act of smoking weed symbolize a momentary respite and a different form of solace. This theme accentuates the duality of our actions and the choices we make when seeking comfort.The chorus of the song contains the lyrics "Yeah, on my mom, I wasn't thuggin', I was geeked" and "Tryna put some emergency racks in a Gucci bag." These lines highlight the conflict between societal expectations and personal identity. The notion of being "geeked" represents an alternative way of expressing oneself, connoting a different kind of rebellion. The desire to accumulate material wealth, as expressed in the line about emergency racks and a Gucci bag, reflects the pressure to conform to societal norms of success. These contrasting themes contribute to the larger narrative of identity exploration and the struggle to find one's place within society.Moving into the second part of the song, the lyric "Out in Rio on our three-day, skin is dark" promotes the theme of self-discovery through travel and experiencing different cultures. It encapsulates the idea that exploring new environments and immersing oneself in unfamiliar territories can be a catalyst for personal growth and understanding. The line serves as a reminder of the transformative power of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing the unknown.The lyric "I'm sure you're golden, but that purity too soft for this world" explores the fragility of innocence and purity in a world that can be harsh and unforgiving. It delves into the idea that maintaining a sense of pristine integrity can be challenging and can often lead to vulnerability and heartache. This theme of the struggle to preserve one's authenticity in a world that often demands compromise adds another layer to the song's overarching narrative.'These Days' is a profound and thought-provoking song that delves into various themes centered around personal experiences and self-discovery. The unexpected and imaginative themes explored within the song serve to deepen the listener's connection to the lyrics and offer a glimpse into the complex emotions and introspection that Frank Ocean aims to convey. Through its exploration of vulnerability, shattered expectations, societal pressure, and personal growth, 'These Days' speaks to the universal nature of the human experience and the intricacies of navigating through life's ups and downs.