You can't master your future if you're still a slave to your past.
RihannaRead
People - especially white people - they want me to be a role model just because of the life I lead. The things I say in my songs, they expect it of me.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Rihanna expresses the pressure placed on her to serve as a role model due to her public persona and lyrics.
In this quote, Rihanna highlights the expectations that society, particularly white individuals, have of her as an artist and public figure. She suggests that her lifestyle and the messages in her music lead people to look to her as a role model, which can feel like a burden. This reflects on the broader theme of how public figures are often scrutinized not just for their art, but for their personal lives and the impact they have on their audience.
Themes
Role ModelExpectationSocietyPressureAuthenticity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the impact of celebrity culture on young people.
More from Rihanna
All quotes →I used to feel unsafe right in the moment of an accomplishment - I felt the ground fall from under my feet because this could be the end. And even now, while everyone is celebrating, I'm on to the next thing. I don't want to get lost in this big cushion of success.
RihannaRead
When it comes to everybody else's thing and their lane and their timing, I'm never doing anything intentional to, like, come after somebody. That will always be my biggest mistake or anybody's biggest mistake if that's their intention.
RihannaRead
Keep your eyes on the finish line and not on the turmoil around you.
RihannaRead
Once you're back on your feet - if you ever make it back on your feet - that's the ultimate achievement. I remember I was in New York at the Trump Hotel and I woke up and I just knew I was over it. It was a different day. I felt different. I didn't feel lonely. I felt like I wanted to get up and be in the world. That was a great, great feeling.
RihannaRead
Spend time with people who know how to use their days well. Just as iron sharpens iron, positive people will inspire you to be positive.
RihannaRead
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