Meaning of Trouble (Remix) by Childish Gambino

The Childish Gambino song, "Trouble (Remix)", featuring Leona Lewis, delves into the complexities of relationships and the challenges they present. At its core, the song explores the idea of trouble, with both artists expressing their perspectives on the various forms it can take. Through their lyrics, they navigate themes of addiction, attachment, honesty, and the notion of personal change. Each standout lyric contributes to the overall narrative of the song by shedding light on different facets of these themes.Leona Lewis opens the song with the lines, "You drink more than you used to, Fell in love, how could you? Trust your heart like only fools do, Go on let it bleed". These lyrics portray the destructive nature of addiction and how it can lead to the downfall of a relationship. Here, the theme of addiction becomes intertwined with the concept of trust and the consequences that arise when it is misplaced. It highlights the idea that sometimes we are drawn to people and situations that ultimately harm us, and the pain endured may become unavoidable.In the chorus, Lewis emphasizes, "I told you never to get used to me, I stay awake when you fall asleep, I’m a whole lot of trouble, We’re in a whole lot of trouble". This lyric highlights the theme of attachment and the struggle between two people who might be wrong for each other yet find it challenging to let go. It touches on the notion of staying awake while the other person sleeps, illustrating the metaphorical insomnia caused by their connection. The repetition of "trouble" emphasizes the intensity and complexity of their relationship, showcasing the emotional and sometimes chaotic nature of love.Continuing with her verse, Lewis sings, "You shout louder than you used to, And you hold on tighter in the bedroom, Stick around like I’mma change soon, Go on let it bleed". These lines expand upon the theme of attachment, but also introduce the idea of personal growth and the struggle to change. The lyrics convey the frustration of feeling trapped within a cycle where neither party is evolving. They depict the raw emotions that come to the surface as a result of the inability to transform oneself or the relationship as a whole.Taking over on the third verse, Childish Gambino introduces a new perspective and adds depth to the song's themes. He raps, "But is it lying if you know that they don’t want the truth? Is it cheating if you jerk it while she in the room? Realer than RedTube, now you mad at the screen". Here, two unexpected themes, honesty and self-gratification, are interwoven. Gambino questions the nature of honesty when one feels that their truth might not be accepted. The inclusion of the line about self-pleasure further explores the complexity of desire and how it can strain a relationship. The reference to RedTube adds an element of modernity, depicting the intricacies of intimacy in today's digital age.In the outro, Leona Lewis repeats the line, "I told you you should never follow me, But here we are, and you’re in too deep, I’m a whole lot of trouble, We’re in a whole lot of trouble". These lyrics bring the focus back to the overarching theme of trouble within the relationship. They encapsulate the conflicting emotions and the sense of inevitability that arises when two individuals collide, despite knowing that the consequences may be challenging to overcome.In conclusion, through the song "Trouble (Remix)", Childish Gambino and Leona Lewis provide a multifaceted exploration of the complexities within relationships. Each standout lyric contributes to a tapestry of themes, including addiction, attachment, personal growth, honesty, and desire. The artists skillfully capture the emotional intricacies and challenges that arise when individuals find themselves in troubled circumstances. The song ultimately serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and often tumultuous nature of love and the importance of self-awareness within relationships.