Meaning of Never Be Peace (original Version) by 2Pac

In the haunting song "Never Be Peace (original Version)" by the iconic rapper 2Pac, the artist delves into a range of profound themes that deeply resonate with the listener. The overall theme of the song is the elusive nature of peace, as the title suggests. 2Pac explores the concept of peace on both personal and societal levels, highlighting the struggles and contradictions inherent in the pursuit of tranquility.One stand-out lyric in the song is, "Paintin' perfect pictures ain't never worked, my misery." Here, 2Pac acknowledges the futility of trying to project an image of an ideal life when one's experiences are filled with hardship and despair. This lyric encapsulates the artist's exploration of the theme of authenticity. The inability to find genuine peace stems from the dissonance between the idealized version of life and the harsh realities one faces.Another impactful verse from the song goes, "It's gettin' harder to see impossibility, should we just face it? Can't get through the pain, but still I can't erase it." This lyric delves into the theme of resilience and the challenges one faces in trying to overcome the pain and hardships experienced in life. It highlights the internal conflict between accepting the impossibility of peace and the relentless desire to transcend the pain and find a way forward.The song also contains verses contributed by Marvaless and Storm, which add depth to the exploration of the theme. Marvaless reflects on the struggle of raising a child amidst a chaotic environment, emphasizing the cyclical nature of violence and lack of peace. Storm, on the other hand, delves into the internal turmoil caused by a turbulent upbringing, showcasing the constant battle between righteousness and succumbing to a life of crime.A recurring motif in the song is the reliance on weapons for protection, with 2Pac stating, "And I know there'll never be peace, That's why I keep my pistol when I walk the streets." This lyric explores the theme of fear and the harsh reality of the need for self-defense. It reflects a society where violence is so pervasive that one feels compelled to carry a firearm, emphasizing the absence of peace in a world riddled with danger.Moreover, 2Pac touches on the devastation caused by societal issues in lines such as, "You motherfuckers are smilin', but I'm mean muggin'." Here, he confronts the facade of happiness hiding the underlying pain and injustice. The theme of societal complacency emerges, as people turn a blind eye to the suffering and continue to go about their lives, further perpetuating a lack of peace.Ultimately, "Never Be Peace" presents a multifaceted exploration of the concept of peace, delving into authenticity, resilience, fear, societal complacency, and the cyclical nature of violence. It calls into question the feasibility of attaining peace in a world plagued by internal and external conflicts. Through his thought-provoking lyrics, 2Pac encourages the listener to critically examine the barriers preventing peace and challenges us to work towards a more harmonious existence.