Meaning of Afterlife by Future

In the song "Afterlife" by Future, the overall theme centers around the struggle between the earthly desires and aspirations of the artist and the acceptance of his own mortality. This dynamic is explored through a series of standout lyrics that not only paint a vivid picture of Future's mindset but also give a glimpse into the complexities of his life and the societal pressures he faces.The opening lyric, "I'm poppin' my shit every morning, then I go to paradise," sets the tone for the song. It highlights the idea of living life to the fullest, indulging in one's own success and accomplishments before ultimately finding peace and satisfaction in the afterlife. This line speaks to Future's desire to make the most of his time on earth, celebrating his achievements while keeping in mind the transient nature of life.The chorus, "Cough syrup got me dozin' off, I can see you in my afterlife; He snapped the clip in then drove off; He know somebody's 'bout to die tonight," delves into the darker realities of Future's lifestyle. It delves into the excessive drug use and the constant threat of violence that looms over him. While on the surface, these lyrics may seem to glorify dangerous behavior, a deeper examination reveals a sense of fatalism. Future acknowledges that the choices he makes may lead to his own demise but he finds solace in the idea of an afterlife where he can reunite with loved ones.One of the more unexpected themes in the song emerges from the lyrics, "That Draco sittin' in the couch, I'm mummified; But I don't fuckin' miss it though, I'm gon' slide; I think out loud, I'ma get my money and I don't get tired." Here, Future connects the imagery of the Draco, a powerful firearm, with being mummified, a symbol of preservation and immortality. The juxtaposition suggests that despite the constant threat of violence, Future remains undeterred and committed to his pursuit of wealth. The theme that emerges from these lines is one of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.In the verse, "You can't help who you love nigga, That's why God made thug niggas," Future delves into the complex nature of love and relationships. This theme explores the idea that societal expectations and circumstances often dictate who one loves, regardless of personal desires or aspirations. By attributing it to God's intentions, Future suggests that the choices we make in love are beyond our control. This concept challenges traditional notions of romance and highlights the unique struggles that come with living a thug lifestyle.Another unexpected theme arises from the lyrics, "I done birthed a lot of lil' niggas, I'm their father; Can't be responsible, how you move? 'Cause I taught ya; Keep it a thousand, ok bool; That's how I was brought up; Lil' nigga had to pay his dues, man, slaughter." In these lines, Future explores the themes of responsibility and influence. He realizes the impact he has had on others, particularly the younger generation, but he also acknowledges that he can't be held entirely accountable for their actions. Through this introspection, Future grapples with the idea that the cycle of violence and tough choices is perpetuated by a lack of guidance and limited opportunities.Overall, "Afterlife" by Future delves into complex themes such as the pursuit of success in the face of mortality, the tension between love and societal expectations, resilience in the midst of violence, and the impact of influence on the younger generation. By exploring these themes through vivid and imaginative lyrics, Future offers listeners a glimpse into the struggles and contradictions that shape his artistry and personal journey. It is through these songs that artists like Future invite us to reflect on our own lives and confront the existential questions that permeate our existence.