When I think about art as a whole and specifically what works of art represent the way I think and feel, I cannot help but immediately think of the musician NF and their music. NF’s work is rife with deep emotional hues scattered throughout the lyrics, allowing those with similar or identical personal insecurities to sympathize and rally behind the message being presented. The song “Outcast” composed by NF, is a wonderful example of exactly what type of message the artist is trying to present, which is the idea that being alone, or an outcast should not change the outcome of your goals, or life choices, this message is being displayed while also being kept interesting by dark and mysterious musical hymns and almost, story-like description of feelings and the process NF has gone through with those feelings. I personally resonate with the messages and musical themes being portrayed in every song by NF, however I do believe this work I connect with more due to the representation in the lyrics of having the keys in your hands to open the cell you are trapped in. Another incredibly major part of the work is the demeanor or style of which this type of hip-hop takes shape as, the music style is very aggressive at times, but the message being portrayed is one of personal resilience and resolve. These factors allow NF to dig very deep into himself to present a story of perseverance through mental illness, insecurity, depression, and other typically underrated ailments everyone goes through on a day-to-day basis. Furthermore, this piece of art in my opinion uses very powerful descriptions and positions on the idea of being alone to breed a sense of familiarity with those listening, to those resonating internally with these issues. Finally, I respect and appreciate this piece of art, and the artist, NF for keeping a message like this extremely powerful, and healthy while also keeping the music entertaining and engaging.

Link to video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7MYJ8Kxhwc