Meaning of Best Friend by J. Cole

The J. Cole song titled 'Best Friend' explores the complexities and struggles within a romantic relationship. The song delves into the ups and downs of a relationship, showcasing moments of discord and affection. It presents a narrative that touches on themes of loyalty, trust, and the challenges that arise when external influences come into play.One standout lyric in the song is "I see your homegirl tryna sway you, how you figure I would play you, would you look at that?" This lyric introduces the theme of outside influences attempting to manipulate or undermine the relationship. It suggests that sometimes people close to us may have ulterior motives and may not always act in our best interest. This theme adds depth to the song, highlighting the importance of trust and communication within a relationship.Another poignant lyric is "Now, now, now, now, know we be arguing, but ain't you riding with me? We breaking up, we making up like Dwayne Wayne and Whitley." This lyric captures the cyclical nature of a turbulent relationship. It draws a parallel to the iconic couple from the TV show "A Different World" to illustrate that despite their conflicts, they always find their way back to each other. This showcases the resilience of love and suggests that even in the midst of arguments, there is a strong bond that keeps the couple together.The line "They try to tell you leave, but this love is real sticky" introduces an imaginative theme of the adhesive power of love. It implies that no matter the circumstances or outside opinions, love has the ability to hold two people together, even when others try to pull them apart. This theme delves into the idea of love being an unbreakable force, able to withstand external pressures.The verse "So you ignore the hickeys, the pics of chicks in their vicky's that they sent me, is that real love? You’re the only one that I will love, damn, damn" introduces a theme of forgiveness and unconditional love. Despite being faced with obvious signs of infidelity, the narrator chooses to ignore them and stay committed to their partner. This suggests that love can sometimes blind us to the flaws and mistakes of our loved ones, leading to a deeper sense of loyalty and forgiveness.The bridge sung by Aaliyah highlights the theme of friendship within a romantic relationship. The narrator's best friend expresses concerns about the treatment they are receiving and advises them to let go. This theme explores the delicate balance between the loyalty we owe to our partners and the honesty and support offered by true friendship. It raises questions about the role of friends in relationships and the importance of their advice.In conclusion, 'Best Friend' by J. Cole touches on various themes that contribute to its exploration of romantic relationships. It depicts the struggles faced by couples, the influence of external factors, the adhesive power of love, the resilience of relationships, and the role of friendship. Through its imaginative and creative lyrics, the song paints a nuanced picture of the complexities within relationships, providing listeners with a relatable and thought-provoking narrative.