Blind
SZA
The Unseen Struggles of Self-Discovery in SZA's 'Blind'
SZA's song 'Blind' delves into the complexities of self-awareness and the struggle to reconcile one's past with the present. The lyrics suggest a narrative of someone who is grappling with their identity, societal expectations, and personal relationships. SZA uses vivid imagery and metaphors to express feelings of confusion and the search for validation. The reference to 'Niggas want me to get ratchet' and 'Put the hood on, now they callin' me Cassius' indicates a pressure to conform to certain stereotypes or personas, possibly as a defense mechanism or to meet others' expectations. The mention of 'Cassius' could be a nod to the boxer Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Clay, symbolizing a fight for identity and respect.
The chorus, 'It's so embarrassing / All of the things I need living inside of me / I can't see it,' speaks to the internal conflict and the difficulty of recognizing one's own needs and desires. SZA's use of 'blind' as a recurring motif underscores the idea of being unaware or unable to see the truth within oneself. The song also touches on themes of self-destructive behavior, as seen in lines like 'Fuckin' on my ex 'cause he validate me' and 'I like all that violence, give me dysfunction,' suggesting a pattern of seeking out harmful situations for a sense of worth or normalcy.
The song's raw and introspective nature is characteristic of SZA's musical style, which often explores themes of vulnerability, love, and the complexities of womanhood. 'Blind' is a candid reflection on the journey of self-discovery, the pitfalls of seeking external validation, and the challenge of seeing oneself clearly amidst the chaos of life.