Meaning of West Side Highway by A$AP Rocky

The A$AP Rocky song, 'West Side Highway', explores several themes through its intriguing lyrics. At first glance, the song delves into the complexity of romantic relationships, self-indulgence, and the unpredictable nature of life. However, upon closer analysis, the lyrics reveal unexpected and imaginative themes that emphasize the artist's perspective on love, identity, and the pursuit of pleasure.One standout lyric in the song is "Yeah, these days of preference has no complexion, you could be light, dark, mixed or fair skin, just light the candle, cold sweats down the handle, life's a gamble." This lyric suggests that the notion of preference transcends physical appearance and instead focuses on a deeper connection between individuals. It speaks to the idea that love should not be limited by external factors such as skin complexion, but rather sparked by something more profound and intimate.Another intriguing lyric is "Love with me is like a c-note, outside of Reno." Here, Rocky equates love with the value of a hundred-dollar bill. This suggests that his love is precious, rare, and worth a significant amount. It also hints at the idea that his love is unconventional, just like the city of Reno itself. This lyric reinforces the artist's willingness to take risks and be different in matters of the heart.The lyric "A couple white lines, a cup of white wine of Pinot, Italian Grigio" can be interpreted as a metaphor for hedonism and indulgence. It represents the excesses of life, from the adrenaline rush of snorting cocaine to the luxurious pleasure of drinking expensive wine. These extravagant acts symbolize a life of decadence and the desire to live without inhibitions. It ties back to the overall theme of the song, emphasizing the pursuit of pleasure and the thrill of living beyond societal norms.Another notable lyric that adds depth to the song is "Audemars, season order like summer fall, I throw the Audemars, then I throw out all the ball. New Dior from the boutique store, the only thing in common that we got is that we want it all." This lyric showcases the artist's materialistic inclinations, but it also delves deeper into the desire for success and the appreciation for luxury. It suggests that Rocky's ambition and pursuit of material wealth are shared qualities with his romantic partner. It reinforces the notion that love can be found in shared dreams, motivations, and aspirations.The lyric "On the highway to my place, it's higher than you ever been, by to my way, be all day, me, you and all your friends, in love, fuckin', in love, just too much, oh" explores the idea of a physical and emotional journey. This lyric speaks to the transcendental nature of love, taking the listener on a metaphorical and euphoric ride. It highlights the intensity and passion of the artist's relationships, symbolizing love as an exhilarating escape or adventure.The song 'West Side Highway' ultimately develops the overarching theme of pursuing pleasure, whether through unconventional relationships, materialistic desires, or the liberating experience of love. Through its imaginative and unexpected lyrics, the song portrays love as a multifaceted and unpredictable journey, challenging societal norms, and embracing self-indulgence.Each standout lyric discussed contributes to these themes in its own imaginative way. The song encourages listeners to explore unconventional connections, embrace life's uncertainties, and indulge in the pursuit of pleasure. 'West Side Highway' invites us to challenge societal expectations, appreciate the complexity of love, and live life to the fullest.