Meaning of Tell Everybody by J. Cole

In J. Cole's song titled 'Tell Everybody', the overall theme seems to revolve around reflection, struggle, and the pursuit of happiness. The lyrics delve into the experiences of the protagonist, who appears to be caught in a cycle of disillusionment and seeking a way out of their circumstances. Each lyric touch on different themes that contribute to this overarching theme, creating a multi-layered and thought-provoking narrative.One standout lyric that caught my attention is "U dr gessler isch nid geschter dr tell wird usglachet" which translates to "And Gessler isn't yesterday, Tell will be laughed at." This lyric, though cryptic, holds a powerful message about the fleeting nature of power and the potential consequences that come with challenging authority. It suggests that the protagonist feels trapped and oppressed by a figure like Gessler, who represents an oppressive force. This theme of fighting against authority and the desire for freedom recurs throughout the song, with the mention of "revoltä zügt" and the struggles faced by those in the streets.Another intriguing lyric is "Hoffnigi stoff choufe wär git isch kriminell" which translates to "Buying hopeful fabric is criminal." This lyric highlights the struggles and limitations faced by the protagonist, where even seeking hope is viewed negatively or condemned by society. It speaks to the socioeconomic challenges faced by individuals in marginalized communities, where opportunities are scarce and the pursuit of dreams may be seen as rebellious or criminal. This theme of societal constraints and the criminalization of hope adds another layer of depth to the song.The line "Deheime uf dr strass kämpft bulle hei üs gchnüpplet" translates to "At home on the street, police fought against us." This line sheds light on the hardships faced by the protagonist and others in similar circumstances who have become disillusioned and forced to fight against the system. It reflects a struggle for survival and the ingrained injustice that exists in society, encapsulating the ongoing battle between the oppressed and those in power. The theme of systemic injustice and the fight for justice or equality is further emphasized through the mention of the protagonist's visible disabilities, symbolizing the physical marks left by the struggle.Each lyric develops unexpected and imaginative themes, ultimately tying back to the overarching theme of reflection, struggle, and the pursuit of happiness. The song highlights the protagonist's desire for a better life, freedom from oppression, and the difficulties faced in their personal journey. It explores societal barriers, the criminalization of hope, and the perpetual fight for justice. Throughout the lyrics, there's an underlying optimism and resilience, as the protagonist refuses to be defeated.'Tell Everybody' serves as a powerful commentary on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and individuals striving to break free from their circumstances. It reminds us of the importance of understanding and empathizing with the struggles of others. The song encourages listeners to look beyond surface-level judgments and to realize the systemic issues that contribute to the hardships faced by many. Ultimately, it serves as a call to action, urging us to amplify the voices of the oppressed and work towards creating a more just and equitable society.J. Cole's 'Tell Everybody' is a beautifully crafted piece that encourages self-reflection while shedding light on the struggles faced by marginalized communities. It serves as a reminder that each individual's story is worth telling and understanding. The song's themes of reflection, struggle, and the pursuit of happiness resonate deeply, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally captivating piece of art.