Frank Ocean writes letter to his 18-year-old self on Tumblr

Tumblr post. FRANK OCEAN. OFWG. KTA. LINK.

Tumblr: @frankocean.

Frank Ocean responded to a fan’s request in a Tumblr Q&A, asking him to write a letter to his “five-years-ago self.” In the note, he shares some details about his life from ages 18 to 23, including his employment history and heartbreaks. Most notably, he also reveals that he’s currently on his way to record music with Jay-Z and Kanye West. The exchange is transcribed and edited for clarity below.

louiexv asked: Explain your current situation to your five-years-ago self.

Wow. Alrite. I’ll give it a shot…

Hey Chris,

Your name is Frank now… it’s a long story. Your girlfriend is about to break up with you because of the long distance. It’s ok. & that job you’re working… well, you’re gonna have to work there for another year and some months… and then you’re gonna get fired. You’re gonna work a couple more jobs after that, too. Nothing glamorous. Kinkos and AT&T if you really want the specifics. But you’re never gonna be homeless or starving. Don’t worry, you won’t fail and have to move back to New Orleans either. You are gonna get your heart broken, though. Twice. If it helps, the first one is gonna be worse than the second. Contrary to how it feels, it won’t kill you. In fact, it’s gonna help you write an album. Yea, you finally finished an album. People like it, man. You’re actually gonna write and record hundreds of songs. They won’t all be good, and most people won’t think you’re talented at first, but you’re going to master your gifts. You’re going to become a lot stronger and wiser… even a little taller. Be patient. I mean, you kind of have no choice. And be good to people. I don’t wanna spoil too much for you, but… You’re on a plane right now to the East Coast to work with Kanye West and Jay-Z. It’s all working out, kid. You made it.

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