We All Try

Frank Ocean's 'We All Try' is a poignant exploration of faith, belief, and the human condition. The song opens with Ocean declaring his belief in various concepts, from religious faith to social issues. He mentions 'Jehovah Jireh,' a biblical reference to God as a provider, and juxtaposes this with his belief in heaven and war, highlighting the complexity of his faith. Ocean also touches on controversial topics like abortion and same-sex marriage, expressing a progressive stance that emphasizes love and choice over traditional norms. This sets the stage for a broader discussion on the nature of belief and the necessity of holding onto something, even when faith is lost.

The hook of the song serves as a powerful reminder of Ocean's faith in humanity. Despite acknowledging human flaws and sins, he maintains that people are inherently good and capable of trying to do better. This belief in human effort and the potential for goodness is a recurring theme, as Ocean repeats that 'we all try'—regardless of gender or age. This universal message of perseverance and hope resonates deeply, suggesting that the act of trying itself is a form of faith.

In the second verse, Ocean delves into more personal and existential doubts. He dismisses the idea of time travel and questions the authenticity of historical events like the moon landing. These lines reflect a broader skepticism about the simplicity and brevity of life. Yet, even in his doubt, Ocean finds a way to connect with others, acknowledging that everyone must believe in something. The song concludes with a reiteration of the hook, reinforcing the idea that despite our imperfections and uncertainties, the collective effort to try and believe is what unites us all.