Meaning of Change - The War On Drugs
The War On Drugs's composition "Change" serves as a poignant exploration of the intricate facets within the sphere of street life, vividly articulated through its lyrical tapestry. The opening verses meticulously depict an urban environment marked by red tape, metaphorically signaling danger and circumspection. The recurrent references to firearms and the provision of illicit substances create a stark tableau, elucidating the narrator's immersion in the perilous realm of the drug trade, thereby underscoring the severity of their surroundings.
The lyrical content alludes to an unyielding pursuit of affluence, elucidated by the mention of substantial wealth—a hundred bands securely stored, accompanied by a penchant for opulent possessions such as Mike Amiri jeans. This ambition, grounded in materialism, emerges as a propelling force, impelling the narrator to a relentless daily grind. The thematic undercurrent of striving for success echoes persistently, with the ultimate aspiration encapsulating a summit where respite awaits, affording the opportunity to savor the hard-earned fruits of labor.
The second verse introduces a more intimate and contemplative dimension to the narrative. References to navigating perilous roads and introspective musings convey the mental toll incurred by a tumultuous lifestyle. The homage paid to the late Juice WRLD through a pledge to abstain from drug relapses adds a layer of vulnerability to the narrative, signifying a connection between the artist and the broader context of the song. The emphasis on loyalty and the aversion to expanding their inner circle underscores the importance of trust and enduring relationships in the narrator's journey.
Beneath the façade of toughness, glimpses of emotional vulnerability emerge, particularly with reflections on the loss of friends to the streets and the toll on mental well-being. The acknowledgment of engaging in conflicts on the front line and confronting adversaries with firepower provides a poignant glimpse into the harsh reality of survival within this milieu. The lyrics draw attention to the adrenaline-infused moments when the environment was perceived as exhilarating, portraying the intricate emotional tapestry associated with street life.
The recurring chorus serves as a thematic anchor, reinforcing key motifs of perseverance, material success, and the stark challenges inherent in the street life depicted. The narrator's declaration of "ballin' like Kendrick Nunn" serves as an emblematic expression of celebration amid the ongoing struggles. The persistent pursuit of success, juxtaposed against the acknowledgment of profound challenges and losses, forms the thematic backbone of "Change." The paradoxical juxtaposition of revelry and adversity encapsulates the intricate journey the narrator traverses.
In the final verse, a deeper exploration of the narrator's background unfolds, emphasizing the volatile nature encapsulated by being a "bomb threat" since entering the game. The acknowledgment of aspirations beyond the trenches underscores a yearning for a life less encumbered. The reference to turning death into a contest within their hometown introduces an element of competition and survival instinct, vividly painting a picture of the challenges faced within this environment.
The concluding lines underscore the narrator's resilience and adaptability, evidenced by their ability to change accessories with shifting moods. The mention of featuring in The Shade Room, a prominent celebrity gossip platform, amplifies the desire for recognition and success on a broader stage. In its entirety, "Change" encapsulates a multifaceted journey, replete with struggles, losses, aspirations, and the perpetual challenge of retaining authenticity amidst turbulent surroundings.
