Hidden meaning of “Unforgettable” by Drake

Let me know, let me know, ohhh ohhh

Let me know, let me know [Drake:]

Yo, this is really one of my dumbest flows ever

I haven't slept in days, and me and my latest girl agreed to go our separate ways, so I'm single

Thinking about what we had and missing you,

But I ain't Santa, I got something for these bad b_tches too

I mean paparazzi on me, trying not to get caught out

They always seem to catch me with the women that I brought out

Baby, don't hold on too long 'cause thats how them stories start out,

And all those girls that played me eat your muthaf_ckin heart out, it's Drizzy

Always gone but never hard to find

And since you can't escape me, do I ever cross your mind?

Because all this sh_t is new to me, I'm learning to behave,

And still spending every dollar they encourage me to save, but I'm good

I know that n_ggas would kill for this lifestyle,

I'm looking forward to the memories of right now

Never forgettin' from where I came,

And no matter where I'm headed, I promise to stay the same [Chorus - Jeezy & Drake:]

I'm just riding round the city with my hood on and my windows down

Ask your girl, I'm the realest n_gga she been around

When I pull up in something new and park it by the haters,

And when you get to talkin' bout the greatest

I just really hope that (you'd think of me) [3x]

I'm doin my thing [3x]

('Cause I'm trynna be unforgettable) [Young Jeezy:]

This just might be my realest flow ever,

When I say for life, y'all say forever

It's hard, but its fair, I told that girl "Life hurts"

The closest you gonna get to this is a Pac t-shirt

The name's Young, baby, you know I live that thug life

The good die young, so I'mma need a thug wife

Yeah, I'm talking his and her firearms

Know our jewelry prolly louder than a car alarm

Yeah, I'm in my "used to have to sneak the car"

Now my insides are lookin like a snickers bar

Yeah, I'm talking caramel leathers,

Damn right, so fly I need feathers

She saying sh_t in them streets, so whats the deal?

And I've done everything in the A, but f_ck Chilli

So welcome to my life, no two days the same

Like for y'all to meet the love of my life, her name's the Game [Chorus - Jeezy & Drake] [Jeezy talking:]

Got this top dropped on this beautiful night

This beautiful night to live my beautiful life

Pain hurts like a cut from a beautiful knife

Just know she right here on my hip, my beautiful wife

Yeah, Drizzy we got em lil brah,

Unforgettable, you'll never forget this, ya understand me?

Timeless homie, unforgettable

Let me know, let me know

Drake's song "Unforgettable" is a deeply introspective and emotionally-charged track that explores the themes of love, relationships, and personal growth. On the surface, the lyrics depict Drake's inner thoughts about a failed relationship and the subsequent journey of self-discovery. However, a closer Straussian analysis reveals unexpected parallels to the popular TV show "Mad Men," shedding new light on the profound meanings associated with the song's lyrics.

At first glance, "Unforgettable" appears to chronicle Drake's personal experiences and emotions following a recent breakup. Throughout the song, he reflects on the memories he shared with his former partner, acknowledging both the joy and pain associated with their relationship. Drake's vulnerability is evident as he grapples with his newfound single status and the complexities of navigating the dating scene. His lyrics also touch upon his fame and the paparazzi's intrusive nature, introducing themes of public scrutiny and the difficulty of maintaining authentic relationships in the limelight.

Delving deeper into the song's meaning, an intriguing comparison can be drawn between "Unforgettable" and the acclaimed TV series "Mad Men." Set in the 1960s, "Mad Men" revolves around the lives of advertising executives and encapsulates the struggles, societal expectations, and personal growth of its characters. Remarkably, Drake's lyrics resonate with the experiences of "Mad Men's" protagonist, Don Draper, casting the song in a new light.

The character of Don Draper is grappling with his own self-identity and the consequences of his actions. He, too, experiences the pain of dissolving relationships, attempting to reconcile the past while navigating a complex present. Drake's line, "Always gone but never hard to find, And since you can't escape me, do I ever cross your mind?" echoes Draper's constant presence in the minds of those who have known him. The parallels deepen further as Drake laments the fleeting nature of fame and the struggle to remain true to oneself through life's trials—themes masterfully explored in the critically acclaimed series.

Another surprising twist emerges when we consider the influence of F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" on Drake's song. Drawing a connection between Drake's introspective journey and the lavish yet hollow lifestyle depicted in the novel, we uncover themes of ambition, wealth, and the pursuit of an unattainable ideal. Similar to Jay Gatsby, Drake grapples with the high price of success and the toll it takes on personal relationships.

Within "Unforgettable," Drake's line, "I know that n_ggas would kill for this lifestyle, I'm looking forward to the memories of right now," paints a vivid parallel to Gatsby's extravagant parties and his obsession with recreating a past happiness that slips further away. The cautionary undertones of both works explore the emptiness of materialism and the need to cherish the present moment instead of chasing unattainable dreams.

While Drake's lyrics reflect his personal experiences and emotions, it is fascinating to consider how other characters within the song might perceive his actions. Where Drake reflects on his growth and self-improvement, his former lovers may interpret his choices as surface-level attempts to move on from one relationship to another. This dichotomy underscores the challenges of understanding another person's journey and serves as a reminder of the subjective nature of human experience.

In "Unforgettable," Drake invites listeners into a deeply personal reflection on love, loss, and self-discovery. Employing a Straussian analysis, we have unveiled unexpected connections between the song's lyrics and the popular culture of "Mad Men" and "The Great Gatsby." By exploring these parallels, we gain a richer understanding of the song's themes, revealing a profound introspection that transcends the borders of personal experience. Ultimately, "Unforgettable" serves as a testament to the complexity of human relationships and the importance of personal growth.