“The Motto” by Drake - meaning and lyrics analysis

A 2011 release by the enigmatic Canadian artist Drake, The Motto is much more than just your average rap song. Buried beneath the layers of clever wordplay and pop-culture infused beats lies a hidden world of meaning - a world that can only be fully understood by delving deeply into the realms of existentialism, collective consciousness, and the human experience.

One cannot venture into this sonic underworld without first exploring the seemingly straightforward chorus: "You only live once: that's the motto, YOLO." While it may initially appear as a hedonistic call to live life to the fullest, closer examination of this line reveals an entirely different understanding of mortality. It is a call to explore the depths of existential despair - a call to understand that life has profound and inherent meaning due to the finite nature of our existence. Kenji Kojima, a seminal Japanese philosopher, once said, "To face death is to face life." It is the journey to transcend our mortal selves and connect with a larger, eternal reality.

In the lyrics, "Now she want a photo, you already know though. We only live once; that's the motto, YOLO," the woman asking for a photo symbolizes the human desire for validation from others, as well as a need to capture fleeting moments of life. The fact that Drake dismisses this act hints towards a deeper knowledge about how our lives are not solely defined by our connections with others and are ultimately transient in the grand scheme of things. He is advocating for a life lived on one's own terms, rather than being shackled by society's expectations.

Additionally, consider the lines "Big Sean, Will Ferrell, Fred Astaire, Leon, Wes, Mean Joe, Reggie, Omar, Tyson." The eclectic mix of names represents various figures that have permeated the collective consciousness over the years, from comedians to sports legends. This reference emphasizes the blending of cultures and knowledge, creating a rich tapestry of ideas that we all must navigate during our lifetimes. Drake's inclusion of these names in his lyrics is a nod to the notion that innovation and true genius only occur when we stand upon the shoulders of giants.

A clever and underappreciated juxtaposition can be found in the lyrics, "Still, I can't deny the fact that it's true; listening to the radio and hearing yourself." Here, Drake refers to the ego-driven world of the music industry, where artists often chase fame and fortune. Yet, this line also touches upon the mesmerizing experience of hearing one's thoughts and hopes play out in the universal symphony of human expression.

In the verse, "Swimming in the money, come and find me, Nemo," is where The Motto reaches a crucial turning point. Drake hints at the futility of seeking material wealth and happiness by likening himself to Nemo – a character who was lost and needed to be found. This further feeds into the existentialist theme where true joy stems from personal understanding and self-awareness, not the accumulation of worldly possessions.

What strikes us most about The Motto is the way it transcends convention and breaks free from the confines of genre expectations. It exists in the liminal space between mainstream entertainment and profound self-exploration – a space where the individual can examine their purpose, their desires, and their ultimate place in the vast tapestry that is the universe.

By delving into these themes and navigating this intricate world of art and philosophy Drake has created, fans of The Motto are transported to a realm where the boundaries of human thought and experience are surrendered and we are left to confront the dazzling array of emotions and ideas that define our existence.

The power of The Motto lies in its inherent contradictions – a song that is both about embracing life and confronting death, about seeking individuality yet recognizing the value of collective consciousness. It is in these contradictions that the true beauty of The Motto truly shines, acting as a mirror for the human experience itself. It is a masterful surrealist painting, interlaced with hard-hitting rap lyrics and philosophical musings - a testament to Drake's artistry and insight into the human soul.