Meaning of Black & White by Juice WRLD

In Juice WRLD's song "Black & White," the artist delves into a world where boundaries blur, and contrasting elements coexist. The track explores themes of duality, substance abuse, and the struggles of navigating a blurred reality. While some lyrics may seem controversial or unsettling at first glance, they serve to highlight the underlying themes and showcase the artist's creative and imaginative storytelling.The chorus of the song sets the tone for the rest of the track, as Juice WRLD describes his experiences in two different scenarios. In the first part, he paints a picture of a night filled with wild adventures, riding in a black Benz and indulging in cocaine with his black friends. This section explores the consequences of substance abuse and the thrill-seeking nature of youth. Despite the dangers, the desire to escape reality and embrace the high becomes a prevalent theme. However, it also implies the cost and potential harm associated with this lifestyle.Juice WRLD then transitions into the second part of the chorus, where he shifts to a white Benz and codeine consumption with his white friends. This juxtaposition introduces another dimension to the song, highlighting the contrast between the two scenarios. The inclusion of codeine brings forth the theme of self-medication and the numbing of emotional pain. It hints at the internal struggles the artist faces and the attempt to find solace in drugs.Throughout the verses and the remaining lyrics of the song, Juice WRLD delves deeper into these themes, creating a multi-layered narrative that drives his message home. In the first verse, he acknowledges the potential harm that comes with substance abuse, referring to Perkys (a type of prescription painkiller). He questions whether they are truly serving their intended purpose or merely causing further damage. This lyric explores the blurred line between medication and addiction, as well as the searching for relief in drugs that can ultimately lead to self-destruction.As the song progresses, Juice WRLD emphasizes the consequences of excessive partying and drug use. He admits to getting too "fucked up" and needing substances like pills with Hennessy to continue the high. This lyric delves into the psyche of someone desperately seeking to maintain the euphoria at any cost, despite the potential for physical harm or addiction. It also touches on the cyclic nature of substance abuse, where the individual may continue to get "fucked up" without seeking help or resolution.The second verse introduces the theme of duality, where Juice WRLD acknowledges his own contradictions and the world he inhabits. He compares himself to a party animal, a lion confined within the boundaries of the zoo. This metaphor represents the conflicting desires for freedom and control that individuals experience while immersing themselves in a party lifestyle. It also highlights the limitations imposed by societal expectations and the struggles of finding one's true identity within the chaos.Throughout the song, Juice WRLD incorporates references to iconic musicians, including Prince and Bobby Brown. These references bring up themes of fame and the destructive influences that can come with it. The mention of purple rain and Bobby Brown's association with cocaine further explores the blurred lines between substance abuse and the music industry. It showcases the struggles many artists face when trying to balance their personal lives and the pressures of success.In conclusion, Juice WRLD's "Black & White" delves into a world where boundaries blur and contrasts collide. The song explores themes of duality, substance abuse, and the search for identity within a blurred reality. Through imaginative storytelling and creative lyricism, Juice WRLD sheds light on the consequences and internal battles associated with a lifestyle of excess. While controversial at times, the song provides listeners with a thought-provoking examination of the human condition and the allure of escaping reality, even if only for a night.