Wildfire (part. 2) (feat. Frank Ocean)

John Mayer's 'Wildfire (part. 2)' featuring Frank Ocean is a poignant exploration of the intense emotions that come with love and pain. The song uses the metaphor of fire to represent the powerful and sometimes destructive nature of these feelings. The opening lines, 'Only a nascent trying to harness huge fire / Out on the beach in the darkness starting bonfire,' set the stage for a narrative that delves into the complexities of human emotions. The imagery of fire is recurrent, symbolizing both passion and danger, as seen in lines like 'Burning trees in the basement start a cool fire' and 'Feel my heartbeat racing, baby you're on fire.' These lines suggest a love that is both exhilarating and perilous, capable of igniting intense feelings but also causing harm.

The song takes a darker turn with the mention of a past conversation in Paris, where the subject revealed suicidal thoughts: 'Back in Paris you told me you were suicidal / It's not a vacation if I lose you to Eiffel.' This stark revelation adds a layer of vulnerability and urgency to the narrative, highlighting the fragility of the human psyche. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of romance, becomes a potential site of tragedy, underscoring the thin line between love and despair. The repeated refrain of 'Wildfire' serves as a haunting reminder of the uncontrollable nature of these emotions.

The collaboration with Frank Ocean adds depth to the song, as his voice complements Mayer's, creating a hauntingly beautiful harmony. The lyrics also touch on themes of admiration and conflict, as seen in 'A hidden admirer sent me roses white as fire / We took our handfuls it was war, flower fighter.' This line suggests a battle of emotions, where love and pain are intertwined, much like the dual nature of fire. Overall, 'Wildfire (part. 2)' is a powerful meditation on the intensity of love and the emotional turmoil it can bring.