Meaning of Dayz Of A Criminal by 2Pac

In the song "Dayz Of A Criminal" by 2Pac, the overall theme revolves around the life and experiences of a criminal. This track delves into the mindset, struggles, and actions of an individual who is constantly on the run from the law and heavily involved in illicit activities. Through its vivid storytelling and raw lyrical content, the song captures the essence of a life lived on the edge, where danger and violence are the norm.One standout lyric that encapsulates the troubled existence of the protagonist is, "Born in the days of a criminal, runnin' from the cops and can't let 'em see me." This line represents the beginning of a life riddled with criminal activities. It suggests that the individual had no control over their circumstances and was molded by the environment they were brought up in. The theme that emerges from this lyric is the idea of fate and the inevitability of a life of crime for some individuals, as societal factors contribute to their path.Another powerful lyric is, "I'm kickin' kilos, but I started with a quarter ounce." This verse explores the concept of progression within the criminal world. It shows the protagonist's rise from small-time dealing to larger-scale drug trafficking. On a deeper level, this can be seen as a metaphor for ambition and the constant pursuit of success, even in illegal activities. The theme here is the lure of power and the allure of material gain that can push individuals to take increasingly dangerous risks.The lyric, "Bitch, I'm a playa, I got no time to be bothered with, havin' no babies in no long-term relationships," highlights the transient nature of relationships in the criminal lifestyle. It suggests that emotional attachments are seen as distractions that hinder one's focus on their criminal endeavors. The theme that emerges here is the sacrifice of personal connections and the suppression of emotions in exchange for the adrenaline rush and allure of the criminal lifestyle.Furthermore, the line, "But fuck a bitch, I keep my mind on my green 'cause yo, that's how I'm livin' in the days of a criminal," delves into the objectification of women and the prioritization of material wealth over personal relationships. This lyric throws light on the misogynistic culture often associated with the criminal world. The theme explored here is the dehumanization of women and the disregard for their emotional needs or well-being in pursuit of personal gain.Additionally, the lyrics, "Put 'em in a nip, in the days of a criminal. It's the menace of Marin, I've killed, I'll kill again," illuminate a dark and violent aspect of the criminal lifestyle. These lines depict the protagonist's willingness to resort to extreme measures, including murder, to protect themselves or advance their criminal activities. The theme here centers around a disregard for human life and the acceptance of violence as a means to an end.Ultimately, this song's themes revolve around the harsh realities and moral complexities of the criminal world. It highlights the multidimensional nature of individuals involved in illegal activities, delving into their motivations, struggles, and the consequences of their choices. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, "Dayz Of A Criminal" offers a glimpse into a world that operates outside the boundaries of the law, shedding light on the human experience within it.