Meaning of What Do You Do by Mac Miller

The overall theme of Mac Miller's song "What Do You Do" revolves around the exploration of identity and the pursuit of personal freedom. The song delves into the struggles, anxieties, and contradictions that individuals face in their pursuit of happiness and self-expression.One standout lyric from the song is in Verse 1 by Sir Michael Rocks: "Man, my mind is an emporium of cute naked hoes." While this lyric may seem provocative, it actually speaks to the idea of freedom of thought and unabashed self-expression. It represents the freedom to embrace one's desires and fantasies without judgment. The theme here is that true happiness comes from embracing and accepting one's own thoughts, even if they may be unconventional.In Verse 2, Mac Miller raps, "A drug habit like Philip Hoffman will probably put me in a coffin." This lyric touches on the theme of escapism and the lengths that people may go to avoid facing their own struggles and insecurities. The reference to Philip Seymour Hoffman, a talented actor who tragically died due to a drug overdose, highlights the destructive nature of seeking solace in substances. The theme here is the importance of confronting one's issues rather than seeking escape through self-destructive behavior.Another powerful lyric in the song is in Verse 4 by Mac Miller: "Mirror mirror on the wall, I'm staring at a dead man." This line alludes to the struggle of self-reflection and the realization that one's past actions and choices may have led them astray from their authentic self. It suggests a desire for change and growth, acknowledging that the person staring back in the mirror is not who they want to be. The theme here is the pursuit of self-awareness and the need to break free from self-destructive patterns to become a better version of oneself.In Verse 7, Sir Michael Rocks raps, "It's like we shootin' for the stars but we scared of heights." This line encapsulates the fear and hesitation that often accompanies the pursuit of dreams and aspirations. It speaks to the internal struggle between ambition and self-doubt, the constant battle between wanting to reach new heights and the fear of failure. The theme here is the courage to overcome fear and take risks in order to achieve personal growth and fulfillment.Lastly, in Verse 9, Mac Miller says, "I love my powder white, prefer my bitches black. I'm gettin' lit with Da$h, you don't see us in the back." This seemingly controversial lyric confronts societal norms and challenges the concept of racial stereotypes and expectations. It speaks to the theme of breaking free from societal constraints and embracing individual preferences and relationships on one's own terms. It celebrates the freedom to love and connect with others without conforming to societal norms or prejudices.Ultimately, "What Do You Do" is a thought-provoking and introspective song that encourages listeners to question their own desires, confront their fears, and embrace their true selves. It explores various themes related to identity, self-expression, and personal freedom, challenging societal norms and expectations. Through its imaginative and unexpected lyrics, the song sparks a deep reflection on what it means to be true to oneself and to find happiness and fulfillment in a complex and challenging world.