The Meaning Behind The Song: Wise Man (Final) by Frank Ocean
Title: Wise Man (Final)
Artist: Frank Ocean
Writer/Composer: Frank Ocean & Malay
Album: Unreleased
Release Date: December 23, 2012
Genre: R&B/Soul
Producer: Malay
Frank Ocean’s “Wise Man (Final)” is a powerful and introspective song that carries deep emotional weight. Although the track was initially intended for Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained, it was ultimately not used in the film. However, it found its way into the 2015 movie “Southpaw” during a poignant and emotionally charged scene. Despite its impact, the song remains unrecognized and uncredited on the official movie soundtrack.
When diving into the lyrics of “Wise Man (Final),” it becomes evident that Frank Ocean is exploring complex themes surrounding humanity, morality, and the existence of good and evil within individuals. The song opens with the lines “Wiseman closes mouth, Madman closes fist.” These lines suggest the idea that wisdom lies in restraint and peacefulness, while madness manifests itself in violence and aggression.
The song goes on to highlight the inherent flaws in human nature. Frank Ocean sings, “Sad man cannot cry in the place where man can see, Never witnessed father weep, This old man thought it weak.” These lyrics convey the societal pressure placed on men to suppress their emotions. The old man’s view of crying as a sign of weakness reflects the expectations of masculinity that often hinder emotional expression.
Frank Ocean continues to challenge conventional notions of good and evil throughout the song. He posits that there are no truly evil or good people, as he sings, “No evil man exists, Good man don’t exist, No righteous man exists.” He implies that labels such as “evil,” “good,” or “righteous” are subjective and shaped by societal standards.
One of the most impactful moments in the song is when Frank Ocean sings, “But your mother would be proud of you, I bet your mother would be proud of you.” These lines convey a sense of longing for validation and pride from a mother figure, emphasizing the universal need for love and acceptance. This personal connection to maternal love resonates deeply with listeners, as it taps into the universal desire for approval and support.
Personally, “Wise Man (Final)” holds a special place in my heart. The raw, introspective lyrics and Frank Ocean’s hauntingly beautiful vocals create a deeply emotional experience. The song has accompanied me through moments of self-reflection and helped me navigate the complexities of the human experience.
The bridge of the song introduces the metaphorical idea of survival and the struggle for freedom. Frank Ocean sings, “Primate sharpens tool, To survive and thrive in the jungle, Maybe hearts were made to pump blood, Maybe lungs were made for flood.” These lyrics suggest that humans are constantly adapting and evolving, just like animals in the wild. It also raises questions about the purpose and meaning behind our physiological functions.
The song concludes with a repetition of the lines from the refrain: “Bad man don’t exist, No evil man exists, I know good man don’t exist, No righteous man exists, Strong man don’t exist, No undying man exists, Weak man don’t exist, No just flesh and blood exists.” This repetition reinforces the message that human nature is complex and multifaceted. There is no absolute good or evil, but rather a spectrum of behaviors and emotions that make up our existence.
In conclusion, Frank Ocean’s “Wise Man (Final)” is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant song that delves into the complexities of human nature. The lyrics challenge conventional notions of good and evil, while also exploring themes of validation and the struggle for freedom. This song is a testament to Frank Ocean’s ability to create music that not only sounds beautiful but also carries deep meaning and significance. It serves as a reminder that we are all imperfect beings, navigating the complexities of life and searching for connection and understanding.
