Meaning of Shoulda Known by Childish Gambino

In the song "Shoulda Known" by Childish Gambino, the overall theme revolves around self-reflection and coming to terms with one's own mistakes and regrets. The lyrics delve into various aspects of the artist's life, from personal struggles to the pursuit of success. Each standout lyric contributes to the development of different themes that ultimately tie back to the overarching theme of the song.One of the standout lyrics is "I'm bussin' two white Russians drinking themselves." This line speaks to the artist's exploration of excess and self-destructive behavior. It symbolizes the allure of indulgence and the consequences that come with such choices. The theme here is the temptation of vices and the inner turmoil that arises from succumbing to them. It highlights the importance of self-awareness and the need to learn from past mistakes.Another significant lyric in the song is "My parents lost their job, it's so cold in the A. Now that I'm one percent, I send most of it home." This line showcases the artist's journey from struggling alongside his parents to achieving financial success. The theme in this lyric emphasizes the gratitude and responsibility that come with achieving success. It explores the desire to uplift others and give back to those who have supported us along the way.The lyric "Man, probably, but now we do the things we always wanted. I'm proud of me, cause I am undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with," reflects the artist's growth and confidence. It suggests a shift in mindset from doubting oneself to embracing oneself and acknowledging personal growth. The theme behind this lyric revolves around self-empowerment and the importance of believing in one's own abilities. It reminds us to be proud of our achievements and to embrace the forces within ourselves.Furthermore, the line "Please somebody cum laude me, graduated, anticipated the hatred and doubted me," conveys the artist's defiance against societal expectations and doubters. The theme here addresses the artist's resilience and determination to exceed expectations despite the doubt cast by others. It speaks to the idea that success is not always determined by conforming to societal norms but rather by staying true to oneself and pushing through adversity.Lastly, the recurring phrase "One love" in the chorus brings all these themes together. It represents a message of unity, self-acceptance, and compassion. It reiterates the importance of love, whether it is for oneself or for others. The theme of love runs through the entire song, highlighting the healing power it possesses to overcome past mistakes and regrets.In conclusion, "Shoulda Known" by Childish Gambino explores themes of self-reflection, personal growth, and resilience. Each standout lyric in the song contributes to the overall development of these themes, discussing different aspects of the artist's journey and the lessons learned along the way. Through introspection, overcoming doubt, and embracing love and compassion, the artist encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives and find the strength to grow and move forward.