"California" is a song by Grimes, a Canadian musician and producer. The song reflects on the struggle with fame and the pressures that come with it. The lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and the toll it takes on one's mental health. The first verses highlight the emotional connection the music has with the protagonist's soul, but also express a fear of winning and the curiosity of what others might think or say. It talks about the tendency to overlook the artist's true self and instead focus on the pain they might be experiencing, turning it into a commodity. The chorus brings attention to the fickleness of relationships and the feeling of being used for someone else's entertainment. The protagonist realizes that they are only liked when they appear sad or distressed, and California (representing the music industry and fame) didn't turn out to treat them well. The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the disappointment experienced by the protagonist. In the bridge, the protagonist expresses a sense of longing for something beautiful and a struggle to understand the judgments and expectations placed upon them. They admit to getting carried away by the commodification of their pain, implying the pressure to conform to certain images or narratives. Overall, "California" explores the dark side of fame and the disillusionment that can come with it. It speaks to the vulnerability of artists and their perpetual search for authenticity and acceptance in an industry that often exploits their emotions for profit.
