Skyline To

Frank Ocean's 'Skyline To' is a poetic and introspective track that delves into the themes of time, change, and the ephemeral nature of life. The song opens with a sense of joy and celebration of summer, a metaphor for the peak moments of life. The lyrics 'Keep alive, stay alive' suggest a reminder to cherish these moments, to maintain the vitality and passion that make life worth living. The mention of 'making sweet love, takin' time' implies a deep connection with another person, enjoying the present without rush.

As the song progresses, there's a sudden shift with the line 'But God strikes us!' which could symbolize an abrupt change or realization. The passage of time is a recurring theme, with Ocean reflecting on how quickly a year has passed and how the length of summers seems to diminish as one gets older. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of youth and the inevitable progression towards maturity. The imagery of driving ('Glidin' on the five') and the deer crossing with the headlights off evokes a sense of moving through life's journey, sometimes in darkness, sometimes illuminated by brief moments of light ('Underneath moon light now').

The song also touches on the idea of escapism and the desire to capture moments of freedom and carefreeness ('Wanna film a tape on the speed boat?'). The reference to 'Californication' might allude to the idealized, dream-like perception of California, a place where everything grows and thrives. However, the repetition of 'smoke' and 'haze' towards the end of the song suggests that this idyllic vision is clouded, perhaps by the complexities and challenges of life. The closing lines bring a sense of resolution, with the morning bringing new beginnings, yet the acknowledgment that peace and strength are hard-earned.