Meaning of NEBRASKA by Mac Miller

In Mac Miller's song 'NEBRASKA,' the overall theme centers around drugs, thugs, killers, goons, saints, evil, wise, fools, highs, lows, bitches, and hoes. The lyrics delve into various aspects of these themes and create a vivid portrayal of the underground world and the complex emotions that come with it. Let's explore some standout lyrics and the intriguing themes they help develop.One standout lyric is "Marijuana been as calming as the fucking Dalai Lama." This lyric introduces the theme of finding solace and peace in the midst of chaos. It suggests that drugs can offer temporary respite from the struggles of life, providing a sense of tranquility comparable to the calming presence of the Dalai Lama. This theme speaks to the human desire to escape, even if only for a moment, from the troubles that surround us.Another powerful lyric is "Your raps are corny as Nebraska, lacksadaisical bars, my throwaways will trash ya." This lyric explores the notion of self-expression and the pursuit of authenticity. It suggests that the traditional, formulaic approach to rap is mundane compared to the raw, unfiltered creativity of the artist. By associating Nebraska with corniness, the lyric also invites us to question societal norms and expectations, encouraging us to embrace unconventional expressions of art.In the verse delivered by Vince Staples, he raps "Hell's chariot creeping, her exposure's indecent, roll is similar to bakers' dough, a bun in the oven." Here, the theme of temptation takes center stage. The mention of Hell's chariot highlights the allure of indulging in forbidden desires, while the reference to a bun in the oven alludes to the consequences and responsibilities that come with succumbing to those temptations. This theme delves into the complexities of temptation, highlighting the tantalizing nature of indulgence and the subsequent fallout that often follows.Moving on to Earl Sweatshirt's verse, one line that stands out is "That weapon make a peppermint out of that white tee." This lyric explores the theme of transformation and metamorphosis. The comparison of a weapon to a peppermint suggests that something as innocuous as a white t-shirt can be transformed into a symbol of power and danger. It speaks to the potential for unexpected shifts in power dynamics and the ability to transform oneself through external forces.Another notable lyric from Earl Sweatshirt is "If I die tonight, then tell my mom I was a pretty bitch." This lyric explores the theme of identity and self-perception. By embracing the label of being a "pretty bitch," the artist challenges societal expectations of masculinity and redefines the concept of beauty. It speaks to the idea that one's true identity should not be confined by societal norms, encouraging individuals to embrace their authentic selves and defy conventional labels.Overall, 'NEBRASKA' offers a gritty and introspective exploration of the dark underbelly of society. Through its standout lyrics, the song delves into themes of escapism, self-expression, temptation, transformation, and identity. It encourages listeners to question societal norms, embrace their true selves, and find solace and meaning amidst the chaos.