Freelance

Toro Y Moi's song "Freelance" delves into the complexities and pressures of modern freelance work, juxtaposed with a quest for personal authenticity and self-discovery. The opening lines, "Oh, walk on the water / Ah-ah-ah-ah, for me," set a tone of seeking the extraordinary in everyday life. This metaphor of walking on water suggests striving for the impossible or the miraculous, a theme that resonates throughout the song as the artist navigates the challenges of freelance life.

The lyrics, "Nothing's ever worse than work unnoticed / Freelance now, yeah, I guess you earned it," highlight the struggle for recognition and validation in a freelance career. The artist acknowledges the pressure and the need to constantly prove oneself, which is a common experience for many freelancers. The line, "Life is only wishing we could load it / Level up, you've got to make a bonus," reflects the gamification of life and work, where success is measured by achievements and milestones.

Toro Y Moi also touches on themes of isolation and self-reflection. The imagery of "Cloud hidden and my whereabouts unknown" and "Decked in Patagonia, head to toe" paints a picture of someone who is both physically and metaphorically camouflaged, blending into their surroundings while searching for deeper meaning. The artist's musings on aging and authenticity, "I can't tell if I'm hip or getting old / People tend to listen when they see your soul," suggest a tension between maintaining a youthful, trendy image and embracing one's true self. Ultimately, the song captures the essence of the freelance experience: a blend of freedom, pressure, and the ongoing journey toward self-discovery.