Meaning of Heathens* by Meek Mill

In Meek Mill's song "Heathens," the overall theme revolves around the struggles and challenges faced by the artist, both in his personal life and within the music industry. It delves into the notion of conformity, loyalty, and the sacrifices one has to make to succeed or survive in a world full of deception and betrayal. Through a series of standout and important lyrics, the song explores various themes, each contributing to the development of the broader message.One standout lyric in the song is "I've been sayin' prayers to keep my soul, 'cause it been gettin' far." This lyric speaks to the internal conflict Meek Mill experiences as he grapples with his own morality while striving for success. It delves into the idea of the artist trying to maintain his authenticity and stay true to himself in an industry that often demands compromise. This theme of personal struggle and the pressure to conform is further reinforced by the line, "Totin' on fans, committing sins, 'cause I gotta swim with sharks." Here, the artist acknowledges that he has had to make sacrifices and sometimes engage in questionable behavior to navigate the treacherous waters of the music industry.Furthermore, the lyric "Never thought these wins and Benjamins'd split my friends apart" sheds light on the toll that success can take on personal relationships. It explores the theme of how financial gains and the pursuit of fame can strain friendships and lead to unexpected divisions. This theme of the cost of success on personal relationships is also emphasized in the line, "I'm the reform they wanna box, they ripped the Benz apart." Here, Meek Mill reflects on how his success and influence have made him a target, and how those around him may harbor envy or ill intentions, ultimately leading to the destruction of the relationships he holds dear.Another theme explored in the song is the unjust nature of the criminal justice system. The line, "I'm walkin' out the courtroom, Papi holdin' hands with me" highlights the support and love Meek Mill receives from his father during a challenging time. However, the following lines, "Damn, he locked up, somewhere far away from my family / Twenty-three and one, can't see the sun, it's startin' to damage me" shed light on the devastating impact of incarceration on individuals and their loved ones. It urges the listeners to consider the systemic flaws and hardships faced by those trapped within the criminal justice system.The theme of resilience and the pursuit of basic needs is also touched upon in the lyric, "Grimy, thirsty, hungry, had to see up for a sandwich, please." In this line, Meek Mill expresses the desperation and hunger one might experience when facing adversity. It represents the struggle to survive in challenging circumstances, where even the most basic necessities become a constant battle, symbolizing the broader struggle for success and upward mobility.Ultimately, "Heathens" encompasses themes of personal struggle, the cost of success, the effects of incarceration, societal pressures, and the quest for survival. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song encapsulates the experiences and obstacles faced by Meek Mill while also reflecting the struggles and challenges encountered by many individuals in similar circumstances. By delving into these unexpected and imaginative themes, the song offers listeners a glimpse into the complex realities of life within and beyond the music industry, ultimately urging them to question societal norms and empathize with those facing various forms of adversity.