Meaning of L.E.S. by Childish Gambino

Childish Gambino's song "L.E.S." explores the complexities of relationships, identity, and the search for validation in a world that often seems superficial and judgmental. The overall theme of the song revolves around the protagonist's struggle with his own insecurities and his desire for a deeper, more meaningful connection with someone.One standout lyric that encapsulates the theme is "A New York nine's an everywhere else six." This line explores the notion of beauty standards and how they can vary depending on location. It touches upon the idea that our perception of attractiveness is often influenced by societal norms, highlighting the superficiality and shallowness of these judgments.Another noteworthy lyric is "Most girls see the clothes and try and gold dig, most hoes poke holes in Trojans." This line delves into the themes of materialism and trust within relationships. It suggests that some women may be more interested in wealth and material possessions rather than genuine connection. On the other hand, it also hints at the vulnerability and fear of betrayal that can arise within relationships.The lyric "Like, she listenin' to old Freeway, 'Cause everybody listens to Biggie, but she different" explores the concept of individuality and uniqueness. It suggests that the protagonist's love interest stands out from the crowd by having her own distinct preferences and traits. This connects to the overarching theme by highlighting the protagonist's desire for a genuine connection with someone who embraces their own identity.The line "Our relationship has gotten Sylvester Stallone" provides an interesting twist on the theme. It suggests that the relationship has become larger than life, perhaps indicating that the protagonist and his love interest have built a facade or a projection of what they want their relationship to be. This lyric hints at the idea that both parties may be putting on a performance rather than truly connecting on a deeper level.In the bridge, the lyrics "I'm an awful guy and I'm always away, And I'm tryin' to say I'm a piece of shit" highlight the protagonist's self-doubt and self-deprecation. It conveys a sense of emotional distance and the struggle to maintain a meaningful connection due to the protagonist's perceived flaws. This lyric emphasizes the theme of the protagonist's desire for acceptance and validation.Overall, "L.E.S." explores the complexities of relationships, the search for validation, and the challenges of maintaining genuine connections in a world that often seems superficial. Each standout lyric helps develop these themes by delving into ideas of beauty standards, materialism, individuality, performance, and self-doubt. Through his introspective lyrics, Childish Gambino provides a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience in modern society.