Toronto 2014

Daniel Caesar's 'Toronto 2014' is a reflective and introspective song that delves into themes of nostalgia, the search for authenticity, and the struggle with the present. The lyrics suggest a yearning for a simpler time, specifically the year 2014, which for the artist represents a period of happiness and perhaps less complexity. The mention of 'a trick' and the desire for 'a pair of glasses' to see 'the ones who truly be' indicates a longing for clarity and truth in a world that often feels deceptive or superficial.

The chorus, with its references to 'bells ringin'' and 'stuck in the matrix, living a lie,' touches on the existential realization that life can sometimes feel like an illusion or a constructed reality, echoing the sentiments of the 1999 film 'The Matrix.' The artist expresses a lack of fear in facing death, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for embracing change or the end of a certain way of life. This bold statement underscores a desire to break free from the constraints of societal expectations and to live authentically.

The song also addresses the passage of time and the changes that come with it. The artist acknowledges his growth, noting that his 'misery is boring' and that he finally feels 'confident,' viewing these as accomplishments. The repeated line 'it's still my city' serves as a reminder of the artist's roots and connection to Toronto, despite the changes he has undergone. The song is a complex interplay between the comfort of the past and the challenges of the present, ultimately finding a sense of identity and place in the midst of it all.