Meaning of R.I.P. by Childish Gambino

Childish Gambino's song titled 'R.I.P.' is a thought-provoking and introspective track that delves into various themes related to self-expression, identity, and artistic growth. The song invites listeners to explore the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of being true to oneself while navigating the expectations and perceptions of others.One standout lyric in the song is, "There's somethin' inside you, It's hard to explain, They're talking about you boy, But you're still the same." This lyric serves as the chorus and sets the tone for the overall theme of the song. It suggests that despite the external criticism or praise an artist might receive, their core essence remains unchanged. It speaks to the idea of staying true to oneself and not letting others' opinions define one's identity.Another important lyric is, "Notorious for my strong flows, Like the rockaways rip tides." This line introduces the imagery of rip tides, symbolizing the intense and unpredictable nature of the artist's skills. It emphasizes the artist's unique and powerful style, drawing a parallel to the forceful impact of rip tides. This lyric showcases the artist's confidence in their abilities and their willingness to take risks in their artistic endeavors.The lyric, "I’m artistic, My visions are obscure, Once depicted you need a prescription, To halt the process of slit wrists," explores the artist's creative process and the depth of their artistic vision. It suggests that their artistry is not readily understood by everyone and requires a deeper level of understanding or interpretation. The mention of needing a prescription to halt the process of slit wrists adds a dark and metaphorical layer to the theme, highlighting the artist's commitment to their craft and the emotional toll it can sometimes take.The line, "Presidential mindset before this rap thing, Was content with that basic shit, My Hilary Clinton," presents an intriguing comparison between the artist's ambition and Hillary Clinton's political aspirations. It suggests that the artist had a pursuit of greatness even before entering the rap industry and that they were not satisfied with average or ordinary achievements. The mention of a presidential mindset adds another layer of significance, highlighting the artist's drive to make a lasting impact and reach the pinnacle of success.Another notable lyric is, "I won’t stop till I’m on everyone’s devices, Pat Benatar, I’m all fired up." This line speaks to the artist's determination to reach a wide audience and be recognized on a global scale. The reference to Pat Benatar's hit song "All Fired Up" adds an unexpected twist, linking the artist's passion and intensity to the renowned rockstar. It suggests that the artist is ready to ignite a revolution with their music, stirring up emotions and inspiring others.In summary, Childish Gambino's 'R.I.P.' explores themes of self-expression, artistic growth, and staying true to oneself amidst external judgment. The standout lyrics discussed above, alongside the broader theme of the song, paint a picture of an artist boldly charting their own path and refusing to conform to expectations. The song serves as a reminder to embrace individuality, celebrate uniqueness, and navigate the complexities of artistic expression with confidence and resilience.