Meaning of The Ways by Big Sean

The song "The Ways" by Big Sean explores the complex theme of how our upbringing and life experiences shape who we become as individuals. The lyrics delve into the ways in which our past, family dynamics, and societal influences can impact our choices, perspectives, and ultimately our identities.One standout lyric from the song is, "I overthink too much, that's just how I was raised." This line speaks to the idea that the way we were brought up can have a lasting impact on our thought processes and behaviors. It suggests that perhaps the artist's upbringing involved an environment where overthinking was prevalent, leading him to inherit this characteristic.Another impactful lyric is, "Broken marriages somehow get inherited." This line touches on the theme of generational patterns and how family dynamics can shape our understanding of relationships. It suggests that witnessing broken marriages within the artist's family may have influenced his views on love, commitment, and potentially affected his own relationships.The lyric, "How do you expect me to be a leader if I never seen one?" raises the theme of role models and the importance of having positive influences in our lives. It highlights the significant impact that the absence of leaders or mentors can have on one's development. This line suggests that without witnessing leadership firsthand, it can be challenging to embody those qualities ourselves.Additionally, the lyrics, "Falling victim to the system that we can't escape" and "Stuck in the city like a never-ending maze" reflect the theme of social constraints and the challenges faced when trying to break free from them. They speak to the artist's experiences in an environment where societal structures and limitations hinder personal growth and progress.One unexpected theme that emerges from these lyrics is the idea of resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the challenging circumstances described throughout the song, the artist still finds a way to navigate through life. The ability to adapt, learn, and choose one's own path, even in the face of generational patterns and societal limitations, becomes a prominent theme within the song.Another imaginative theme that can be inferred is the exploration of self-awareness and the power of introspection. The artist reflects on his upbringing and the impact it has had on his life choices, showing a deep understanding of himself and his surroundings. It raises the idea that self-awareness can be a catalyst for personal growth and self-transformation, allowing individuals to break free from ingrained patterns and shape their own destinies.Overall, "The Ways" is a thought-provoking song that examines how our past, family dynamics, and societal influences play a significant role in shaping who we are. It invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences and consider how their backgrounds have influenced their journey. Through rich and introspective lyrics, Big Sean offers an authentic exploration of personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges – ultimately reminding us of the power we hold to transcend our past and pave our own paths.