Meaning of It Won’t Be Long by J. Cole

The J. Cole song, 'It Won’t Be Long,' delves into the struggles and aspirations of a young artist trying to make it big. While the song might initially appear to focus solely on the journey towards success and the hardships encountered along the way, deeper examination reveals a myriad of themes that intertwine and reinforce the song's overall message.The song opens with a prayerful acknowledgement of the grind that accompanies the artist's day job. Despite the exhaustion, the artist maintains an unwavering determination to succeed. This immediate contrast sets the tone for the song, highlighting the artist's resilience amidst adversity.One standout lyric in the first verse that contributes to the overall theme is, "Cause that old shit fake, but this new shit real." Here, the artist emphasizes the authenticity of his craft by juxtaposing it with the superficiality of past endeavors. This lyric explores the constant evolution of artists and their commitments to staying true to themselves while navigating the often-fickle music industry.Another notable line that adds depth to the song is, "Hey Cole, is you crazy? That's some big boots to fill, yeah straight out the Ville and the shoes fit well." Here, the artist acknowledges the pressure and expectations placed upon him, comparing himself to celebrated figures such as Jay-Z. This lyric delves into the desire to prove oneself and make an impact in the industry, ultimately bringing the artist closer to his dreams.The theme of witnessing both heaven and hell is introduced when the artist reflects on the dangers and hardships he has encountered. The lyric, "Seen heaven, seen hell, seen niggas get killed, knew every detail still never would tell," portrays the artist's experiences without compromising his loyalty and integrity. This theme of hardship and silent endurance is a powerful commentary on the artist's journey, further deepening the emotional resonance of the song.Moving into the second verse, the artist addresses the marginalized voices and injustices that exist within society. The line, "Is it cause you know my teacher be feeding me lies, is it cause you know that preacher is greedy inside," delves into the frustration and disillusionment the artist feels towards those in positions of power who perpetuate detrimental ideologies. This theme speaks to the artist's awareness of the systemic challenges faced by himself and those in his community.The song explores the consequences of a society that perpetuates racism and discourages the pursuit of education and honest work. The artist's mother's struggle to provide is highlighted, reflecting a larger theme of income inequality and exploitation. The lyric, "So what's the options for him, a young nigga from the hood without a pops at home, surrounded by no good, and soon no good becomes so good quick," examines the limited opportunities available to individuals faced with these circumstances. This theme underscores the artist's desire to uplift himself and those around him, as well as the importance of breaking cycles of poverty and limitation.In conclusion, 'It Won’t Be Long' by J. Cole explores the multifaceted journey of an artist striving for success while confronting systemic obstacles. The song encapsulates themes of authenticity, resilience, the burden of expectation, internal strength, marginalization, and the pursuit of a better future. Each lyric serves as a narrative building block that contributes to the song's overarching theme and offers unique perspectives on the artist's experiences. Through its introspective lyrics, the song offers a powerful insight into the artist's struggles, dreams, and aspirations, resonating with listeners who have faced similar challenges and highlighting the potential for triumph amidst adversity.