Noid
Tyler, The Creator
The Shadows of Paranoia: A Glimpse into Tyler, The Creator's Mind
The song 'NOID' is an intense and visceral exploration of paranoia, a central theme in the artist's eighth studio album, 'CHROMAKOPIA'. The track is the first commercial single from the album and features the protagonist, Saint Chroma, being consumed by feelings of persecution and constant surveillance. The lyrics reflect the sense of always being watched, with references to cameras and recorders, and the inability to find peace amidst this pressure.
The accompanying music video released an hour before the full track on streaming platforms, intensifies this sense of paranoia. In it, Saint Chroma is depicted frantically running away from imaginary threats, such as a car chasing him and a person threatening him with a gun in his own home. These visual images reinforce the idea that paranoia is a mental construct, a distorted perception of reality that leads the protagonist to isolate himself and distrust everyone around him.
The lyrics of 'NOID' also deal with distrust of those close to him, including neighbors and even accountants, suggesting that no one is trustworthy. Tyler, The Creator uses this narrative to criticize the lack of privacy and the constant invasion of his personal life, something he experiences as a public figure. The song conveys the message that paranoia can be debilitating, leading to a constant state of alertness and the inability to relax or feel safe.
In addition, the song reflects on the pressure of fame and the difficulty of maintaining privacy in a world where everything is recorded and shared. Tyler expresses the desire to get away from the cameras and live in peace but recognizes that this is almost impossible in his position. 'NOID' is a powerful representation of the internal struggle against paranoia and the search for a balance between public life and personal privacy.