Meaning of Just Begun by J. Cole

The J. Cole song titled 'Just Begun' is a powerful and thought-provoking track that delves into various societal issues while highlighting the artists' skills and lyrical prowess. The overall theme of the song revolves around perseverance, resilience, and the never-ending pursuit of success despite the obstacles that one may face.One standout lyric from the song is "Your bullet points so hollow they could probably pierce body armor" which speaks to the idea of facing criticism and negative opinions. This lyric can be interpreted as a representation of how words can hurt, but they should not deter someone from pursuing their dreams. It conveys the message that no matter how intense the criticism or how much negativity is thrown their way, individuals should remain strong and keep pushing forward.Another significant lyric is "They snitchin' like Donnie Brisco and counting like Monte Cristo." This line can be seen as a critique of a society where betrayal and deceit are prevalent. The reference to Donnie Brisco highlights the theme of trust issues and the importance of being cautious when dealing with people. The mention of Monte Cristo suggests that people often prioritize personal gain and monetary wealth instead of moral values and integrity. This lyric serves as a reminder that it is essential to stay true to oneself and not be swayed by the dishonesty of others.Furthermore, the line "I'm in New York now, like Akeem and Semi was, tryna get the lobby door open from a semi buzz" brings up the idea of ambition and determination. It refers to the iconic movie "Coming to America" and the protagonist's resilience as he strives to achieve his goals. The mention of being "in New York" represents the pursuit of success in a highly competitive environment. This lyric emphasizes the need to work relentlessly towards one's aspirations, even if the journey seems challenging or the odds are stacked against them.Moreover, the lyric "I'm a rebel without a cause, a bezel without no flaws" addresses the theme of individuality and self-expression. It suggests that one does not need to conform to societal norms or expectations to be successful. It encourages individuals to embrace their uniqueness and be confident in their abilities, even if they may seem unconventional or different from the norm. This lyric serves as a reminder that embracing one's authentic self is essential to reaching personal and artistic fulfillment.Additionally, the line "Really though, I'm LeBron, really don't got my mind on this new school of rappers, I will really go Columbine" touches on the idea of artistic and intellectual growth. It symbolizes the artist's desire to surpass the expectations set by others and redefine the boundaries of their craft. The comparison to LeBron James showcases the determination and relentless drive to be the best. The mention of "Columbine" is metaphorical, representing the artist's willingness to boldly challenge conventional rap norms and break existing barriers to make a lasting impact on the industry.In conclusion, the song 'Just Begun' by J. Cole explores various central themes such as perseverance, resilience, ambition, individuality, and artistic growth. Each standout lyric mentioned above contributes to the overall message of the song, urging listeners to remain steadfast in the face of adversity and to pursue their dreams passionately. It encourages them to embrace their uniqueness, challenge societal norms, and strive for greatness. 'Just Begun' is a powerful anthem that inspires individuals to never give up and continue on their journey towards success.