"Tomorrow" by Tyler, the Creator delves into his anxieties about aging and the pressure he feels to settle down, particularly in the face of family and friends starting their own families. The lyrics reveal a complex interplay of personal thoughts and societal expectations surrounding life transitions.
Here's a breakdown of the thoughts and background behind the lyrics:
Intro: The intro is a humorous yet poignant reflection of the pressure Tyler feels from his family to have children. He jokes about wanting a "Ty-Ty" (a grandson) and "dookie booty" (a grandchild in general), but the repetition of "give it up" reveals the underlying frustration he feels.
Verse 1: Tyler begins to grapple with the passage of time. He observes his mother's aging, his own weight gain, and the changes in his appearance. The "thought of children" brings him "stress" because he feels the pressure of societal expectations and his own internal desires pulling him in different directions.
Chorus: The chorus is a strong statement of defiance against these pressures. He tells those who wait on him to "not wait" because he's "gonna be fine" regardless of whether he conforms to traditional expectations. He acknowledges that "time got nothing right" and emphasizes his individual autonomy in choosing his own path.
Verse 2: This verse digs deeper into Tyler's internal conflict. He acknowledges that he's not the same "T" he used to be and that this change makes some people uncomfortable. He sees the "fear" in others' eyes and acknowledges the "wrinkles" on his own "spirit," suggesting a sense of weariness with external pressures.
He uses metaphors like "tubbin'" (being confined) and "flooded" (overwhelmed) to illustrate his desire for freedom from expectations. He assures himself and the listener that he's "thought this shit out" and will make his own decisions. The contrast between his friends and family having children and his own desire to remain independent is stark.
Chorus (Repeat): The chorus repeats, emphasizing Tyler's determination to chart his own course, even as he acknowledges the anxieties that come with that choice.
Overall, "Tomorrow" reveals Tyler's vulnerability as he navigates the expectations of adulthood and family life. He resists societal pressure to conform while simultaneously acknowledging the internal turmoil those expectations cause. He ultimately chooses to embrace his own agency and find his own path, even if it deviates from the norm.