Meaning of Crooked Smile (Original) by J. Cole

In J. Cole's "Crooked Smile (Original)", the overall theme of the song is self-acceptance and embracing one's imperfections. The lyrics delve into the pressures of appearance and society's expectations, particularly for women, but ultimately emphasize the importance of loving oneself for who they are.One standout lyric that contributes to this theme is from the first verse: "Love yourself, girl, or nobody will". This line highlights the significance of self-love and how it is the foundation for healthy relationships and a positive self-image. It suggests that seeking validation solely from external sources will ultimately be unsatisfying, and that the best way to attract genuine love and acceptance is by first loving oneself.Another impactful lyric that reinforces the theme is from the second verse: "You ain't So So Def, your teeth just got Jagged Edges". Here, J. Cole recalls a moment of humiliation, expressing how a hurtful comment about his crooked teeth impacted his self-confidence. This lyric explores the theme of self-esteem and the power that negative words can have on one's perception of self. It highlights the importance of not allowing others' opinions to define our worth or dampen our self-acceptance.Moving on to the third verse, there is a lyric that adds another layer to the song's theme: "This crooked smile was just another sign saying life ain't fair". This line suggests that physical imperfections, such as a crooked smile, can serve as reminders that life is not always perfect or fair. It touches upon the idea that everyone faces challenges and struggles, and that it is our ability to appreciate ourselves in spite of these imperfections that truly leads to happiness and fulfillment.Additionally, within the third verse, there is a reference to childhood crushes and the expectation of keeping up with fashionable trends: "That nigga had the fresh new gear, J's drop. He got a fresh new pair, and there I was with hand-me-downs". This lyric speaks to the theme of societal pressures and how they can weigh heavily on one's self-esteem, especially during adolescence. It highlights the struggle of feeling inferior based on external appearances and possessions, and the difficulty of embracing one's individuality when faced with societal expectations.Overall, "Crooked Smile (Original)" by J. Cole explores the theme of self-acceptance and the importance of loving oneself for who they are. The song addresses societal pressures, comments from others, and the impact they can have on one's self-esteem. Each lyric discussed adds depth and nuances to the theme, emphasizing the need to find inner strength, appreciate one's imperfections, and prioritize self-love over external validation.