Golden
Tyler, The Creator
The Inner Turmoil of Tyler, The Creator in 'Golden'
In 'Golden,' Tyler, The Creator delves deep into his psyche, revealing the intense emotional and psychological struggles he faces. The song is a raw and unfiltered monologue that captures Tyler's feelings of isolation, pressure, and identity crisis. The opening lines set the tone, with a therapist-like figure acknowledging Tyler's problems, which immediately immerses the listener into a session of self-reflection and confession.
Tyler's lyrics touch on the strain his career places on his personal relationships, particularly with his mother and friends. He laments the loss of fun in his work, which has now become a source of stress and legal complications. The transformation of his friends into assistants and the superficiality of newfound relationships highlight his sense of alienation. The recurring theme of contemplating ending it all underscores the depth of his despair and the weight of his mental health struggles.
The song also explores Tyler's complex relationship with fame and his identity. He grapples with the expectations and perceptions of his fans, particularly the 'white kids' who idolize him without truly understanding him. The references to his upbringing, his mother's sacrifices, and his own self-doubt paint a picture of a young man caught between his past and his present. The metaphor of a 'marriage with a hearse' symbolizes a union doomed from the start, reflecting Tyler's feelings of entrapment and inevitable failure.
'Golden' is a poignant exploration of Tyler, The Creator's inner world, marked by a blend of vulnerability, anger, and introspection. It offers a glimpse into the mind of an artist who is constantly battling his demons while navigating the complexities of fame and personal growth.