The Meaning Behind The Song: Plastic by Moses Sumney
The Meaning Behind The Song: “Plastic” by Moses Sumney
Introduction
Music has a way of touching our souls and resonating with our deepest emotions. Some songs have a profound impact on us, and one such song that has captivated many is “Plastic” by Moses Sumney. Released as part of his album “Aromanticism” in 2017, this song delves into themes of vulnerability, self-perception, and the desire to be seen for who we truly are.
Table of Contents
The Lyrics
In the verses of “Plastic,” Moses Sumney paints a picture of feeling broken yet bold, acknowledging the complexities of life. He sings, “I know what it is to be broken and be bold, tell you that my silver is gold.” These lyrics reveal the contrast between outward appearances and inner struggles. The metaphorical reference to silver and gold highlights the notion of transformation and the yearning to transcend one’s circumstances.
Sumney further explores the vulnerability of not being held or seen for one’s true self, stating, “Funny how a stomach unfed seems satisfied ’cause it’s swell and swollen.” This line reflects the tendency to settle for superficial satisfaction when our deeper needs are left unfulfilled. It speaks to the masks we wear and the facade we put on to exude confidence and contentment, even in the absence of genuine connection.
The chorus of “Plastic” repeatedly emphasizes the idea that the protagonist’s wings are made of plastic. This symbolic representation of fragile and artificial wings underscores the struggle with authenticity and the fear of being exposed for who they truly are. The repetition creates a lasting impact, highlighting the internal conflict of wanting to fly but feeling restrained by societal expectations and the pressure to conform.
In the outro, Sumney declares, “My wings are made up, and so am I.” This conclusion suggests a merging of the external and internal dissatisfactions, emphasizing the struggle to reconcile one’s identity with societal norms. It encapsulates the song’s central theme of searching for authenticity in a world that often promotes superficiality.
Personal Connection
As a listener, “Plastic” resonates with me on a deep level. It serves as a reminder of my own journey towards self-discovery and the challenge of aligning my true self with societal expectations. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for authenticity, something that I believe many of us can relate to.
Through the vulnerability and courage displayed in this song, Moses Sumney reminds us that it is okay to embrace our flaws and imperfections. It encourages us to step out of the plastic molds we create for ourselves and embrace our true selves, even if it means being vulnerable and taking risks.
Additional Information
“Plastic” is a remarkable piece of artistry, both in terms of its lyrics and musical arrangement. Released as part of Moses Sumney’s album “Aromanticism” in 2017, it tackles themes of romance, love, and the complexities of human emotions. The album as a whole garnered critical acclaim for its introspective and poetic nature.
The song “Plastic” was produced by Joshua Willing Halpern and Moses Sumney himself. The heartfelt vocals are delivered by Moses Sumney, whose soulful and ethereal voice adds depth and emotion to the lyrics. The mixing was done by Ben Baptie, and the string arrangement was composed by Miguel Atwood-Ferguson.
Labelled as R&B, Art Pop, Singer-Songwriter, and Alternative R&B, Moses Sumney’s unique blend of acoustic and soulful elements creates a truly captivating listening experience. With “Plastic,” he presents a thought-provoking and introspective masterpiece that encourages us to question societal norms and embrace our true selves.
