Vic Mensa's song "All That Shines" intricately delves into the multifaceted nature of success, unraveling the illusions it fosters and the formidable challenges that invariably accompany it. The recurring refrain, "All that shines, is not gold," resonates as a poignant mantra, encapsulating the thematic core of the composition—a stark reminder of the deceptive nature of external facades.
Embarking upon a reflective journey, Mensa perceptively acknowledges the meteoric ascension of his career, metaphorically tracing his evolution from a slender beginning to a weightier presence in the rap domain. His narrative is imbued with a vivid portrayal of affiliations with influential luminaries such as Jay-Z and Diddy, thereby sketching a tableau of the opulent lifestyle intertwined with the New York City milieu. The allusion to D'Angelo and the invocation for "a billion lights" via camera phones poignantly encapsulates the allure and visibility emblematic of success in the contemporary age of social media.
The lyrical substance takes a profound turn towards introspection as Mensa contemplates the dichotomous essence of success. The metaphorical "street lights" symbolize life's divergent paths, with Mensa suggesting that success can emanate from navigating the challenges inherent in urban life. However, amidst the triumph, he astutely alludes to societal division and incarceration, underscoring the harsh realities many endure in the relentless pursuit of success.
Mensa's lyrical acuity comes to the fore as he critiques the superficiality entrenched within the music industry. Employing metaphors such as "paperweight," he castigates those who lay claim to success without substantive merit. The lyrical dichotomy further unfolds as Mensa draws a stark contrast between the arduous journey contending with doubters and the authentic connections forged amid the industry's faux allure—"snakes in the grass" representing artifice and "real niggas in the house" embodying genuineness.
A pivotal juncture in the song materializes when Mensa recounts a vivid dream, serving as a poignant metaphor for the ephemeral nature of success. The dream encapsulates the euphoria of eluding consequences, only to be abruptly confronted by the metaphorical "tail lights," emblematic of a harsh reality check. This juxtaposition elucidates the precariousness of success and the perennial challenges that accompany the pursuit thereof.
In the latter part of the composition, Mensa delves into societal issues, confronting the dearth of peace in the streets and pervasive deception. He articulates the struggle of communicating within a society seemingly indifferent to the plight of its denizens. The reference to presidential speeches and the perceived deafness amplifies Mensa's poignant critique of societal structures.
In summation, "All That Shines" emerges as a layered and introspective opus that transcends surface-level narratives. Vic Mensa's lyrical prowess unveils a raw and unfiltered contemplation on the illusory facets of success, the intricate navigation of the music industry, and the persistent societal issues. This composition stands as a compelling testament to Mensa's artistic oeuvre, showcasing his ability to weave a tapestry of profound themes within the fabric of his music.
