In Skepta's composition "Bullet From A Gun," the artist engages in a profound exploration of the intricacies inherent in relationships and the stark realities entailed in the sphere of fame. The metaphorical expression "Like a bullet from a gun" serves as a poignant depiction, conveying the searing realization that an individual was never authentically one's own, but merely a transient presence in the narrative of one's life. Skepta meticulously dissects the emotional toll incurred in confronting personal demons, underscoring the notion that financial affluence does not insulate one from such internal struggles.
The lyrical line "Your niggas said 4L, but the shit got real and you weren't concerned" sharply accentuates the disjunction between professed everlasting loyalty and the starkness of reality, epitomizing the overarching theme of disillusionment within interpersonal connections. The recurrent assertion of "the world spins round and round fam, lessons have to get learned" perpetuates the cyclical nature of existence, underscoring the inevitability of encountering challenges and the subsequent acquisition of wisdom. This refrain becomes a leitmotif, elevating itself to a mantra for resilience, emblematic of Skepta's steadfast character.
The composition navigates a contemplative shift as Skepta introspectively examines his ascension within the music industry. The lyrical trajectory from silver to gold to platinum mirrors his artistic triumphs, concurrently acknowledging the perils of celebrity life, including the ephemeral allure of supermodels and the emotional toll incurred by vexation. The lyrics delicately address the potential simplicity of crafting a melancholic song rooted in his upbringing, yet Skepta vehemently disavows victimhood, establishing his identity as a "real top boy."
Familial threads are intricately woven into the narrative as Skepta references his mother's revelation about the etymology of his name. The evocative moment at his granddad's gravestone imbues the lyrics with a profound sense of lineage, encapsulated in the phrase "Already dead, nothing to fear, I've been here from time," signifying an enduring connection with ancestral strength.
Societal critiques emerge in Skepta's lyrical discourse, touching upon issues such as police brutality and the complexities of navigating a world dominated by law enforcement. The artist scrutinizes those who engage in online posturing for validation, juxtaposing this with the authenticity of diligently working towards success. Collaborative nods to fellow artists, including Lancey, Headie, and J Hus, inject a sense of unity into the narrative, highlighting solidarity in the face of shared challenges.
As the composition unfolds, Skepta directs his focus toward personal evolution and prioritization. The emphatic refrain "This year we're done talking, forget the bagga chat, it's just action" symbolizes a commitment to tangible results over verbal discourse, signaling a resolve to confront life's challenges proactively. The artist candidly acknowledges the imperative to resist temptation and momentarily suspend emotional responses to navigate life's tumultuous currents.
In the culminating repetitions of the chorus, the evocative phrase "like a bullet from a gun it burns" resonates as a powerful reminder of the recurrent anguish accompanying moments of realization and enlightenment. Skepta's lyrical odyssey encapsulates the myriad struggles, triumphs, and the perpetual journey of self-discovery that defines an individual navigating the capricious terrain of life.
