Not only would it be historically inaccurate for her to be of Elizabeth Taylor’s complexion (especially with those violet eyes), but the whitewashing of Ethnic groups runs deep in the industry. In many film adaptions of Cleopatra’s life and reign, white actresses take on the role.
#Think pyramids frank ocean lyrics skin
The Egyptian people of Cleopatra’s era are thought to be of Nubian and Semite descent as well as many other ethnic groups, which would give them brown skin and “silky” hair. “ Our skin like bronze and our hair like cashmereĪs we march to the rhythm, on the palace floorĬhandeliers inside the pyramid, tremble from the force“ The Cleopatra in question is of course the aforementioned last Egyptian Pharaoh who was an icon of sexual power and is known for her rendezvous with both Marc Antony and Julius Caesar. The statement of a thief slipping underneath the legion’s noses to kidnap Cleopatra could be read in a historical context to be a revision of Egyptian history, but I analyze this to be an exposition for the rest of the song and sets the rest of Frank’s story with the backdrop of a royal crime. (Sounds random in this part of the song, I’ll explain that later!) The pronunciation Frank uses sounds an awful like “cheater” as well, creating a mistrust of our Queen. The overall feeling is reminiscent of a dreamlike state that is soon juxtaposed by an 80’s inspired percussion.įirst of all, Cheetah’s is a chain of strip clubs throughout America. Because of all of these current events, I wanted to take a look at these lyrics, and why I feel they’re impactful.įor the first 4 minutes and 25 seconds of the nearly 10 minute track, we are transported to ancient Egypt by the eerie synths and reversed 808s that bring a surreal, and unnerving feeling to the track. And it feels more relevant than ever in my life at this current moment, when the dignity of black women is put under a microscope even by members of our community. I like this song a lot, it’s probably one of my favorite songs ever. But the exploitation and hyper-fetishization of the group contributes to degradation that has permeated through generations. On his 2012 album Channel Orange, track 10 titled “Pyramids” tells the story of the fall from grace of black women throughout history from Queens to prostitutes, using Cleopatra as an embodiment of the black queen.
One of the most notable references, in my opinion, to Cleopatra and her influence comes from Frank Ocean. Cleopatra’s reputation precedes her, whether it’s a pale Elizabeth Taylor’s longing gaze or Shakespeare’s rendition of her seductress tendencies. One of the most notable was that of Egypt, and the last as well as one of the most infamous Pharaohs, Cleopatra VII. I get mad because I know the stories of African royalty, of wealthy Kings and Queens that ruled nations before colonization. When I think of the exploitation of black women, I get mad, honestly. You don’t have to be the victim of a hate crime to feel the racial injustice that is deeply embedded in not just our country, but our entire world. While I myself haven’t faced great amounts of sexism and racism on a day to day basis in my progressive area, the mixture of micro-aggressions and the viewing of systemic inequalities has made me extremely aware that this society was not built to serve and protect me.
The most neglected person in America is the black woman.” To this day, that statement rings unfortunately true and resonates deep within myself. The most unprotected person in America is the black woman. In 1962, Malcolm X spoke the words, “The most disrespected person in America is the black woman.
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