Meaning of Thoughts by Lil Nas X

In Lil Nas X's song "Thoughts," the overall theme revolves around the struggles and perseverance faced by an aspiring artist. Through introspective verses and an infectious chorus, the artist reflects on his dedication to his craft and the challenges he encounters along the way. The song explores feelings of self-doubt, the pressure to succeed, and the desire for recognition. Each standout lyric contributes to building a narrative of determination and the willingness to overcome obstacles.In the opening verse, Lil Nas X expresses his resilience, making it clear that giving up is not an option. The line, "Would I give up? That's outta the question. I just been doing this shit for months, I'm just a fuckin' freshman," highlights his persistent attitude towards his dreams. This lyric develops the theme of persistence and emphasizes the long-term commitment required to succeed in the music industry.As the song progresses, the chorus introduces a contrasting theme of authenticity and the internal struggle faced by artists in maintaining their true selves amidst growing fame and societal expectations. The lines, "Ayo, we love you when you're dead and when you're sittin' in the slammer," shed light on the superficial nature of fame and the judgment individuals face, even in moments of vulnerability. This notion develops the theme of the artist's need to uphold their authenticity despite external pressures.Moving onto the second verse, the lyrics present an unexpected theme of inner strength and the metaphorical representation of fighting like Rocky. Lil Nas X acknowledges the challenges ahead and describes himself as the underdog, reflecting his desire to prevail against the odds. The lyric, "I mean, I know my shit is good, don't mean to come off as cocky," highlights the artist's self-awareness and humbleness while emphasizing the importance of self-belief in the face of criticism. This theme of inner strength ties back to the overarching theme of perseverance and staying true to one's passion.Towards the end of the song, Lil Nas X introduces a theme of ambition and the hunger for recognition. The lyrics, "My name should be laying on big posters and shit, so I'm focused as shit, they bogus as shit, hoping I get noticed, nobody's noticing it," capture his frustration with the lack of acknowledgment he perceives from his surroundings. This theme delves into the complex desire for fame and the constant pursuit of validation within the competitive music industry.The outro is left open-ended, leaving listeners in a state of contemplation. The closing line, "Damn," an exclamation of disbelief or frustration, encapsulates the artist's mixed emotions as he evaluates his journey. This moment of vulnerability brings the listener closer to the artist's mindset of wrestling with doubt and uncertainty.In conclusion, "Thoughts" by Lil Nas X encompasses a range of themes that shed light on the struggles faced by aspiring artists. From persistence and authenticity to inner strength and ambition, the song encapsulates the dedication required to succeed in the music industry. Each standout lyric contributes to the development of these themes, culminating in an introspective and relatable narrative. Through his honest exploration of emotions, Lil Nas X connects with listeners on a deeper level, reminding us that success is not easily attained, but the journey is worth the effort.