Meaning of Koldjawn by Meek Mill

In Meek Mill's song "Koldjawn," the rapper delves into the harsh realities of life behind bars. The overall theme of the song revolves around the chilling experience of being incarcerated and the struggles one faces while confined to a jail cell. Through powerful imagery and thought-provoking lyrics, Meek Mill aims to shed light on the emotional and physical toll being locked up takes on an individual.One standout lyric in "Koldjawn" is "With two blankets wrapped 'round you with the koldjawn, Cuz the cell cold with roaches runnin' 'round." This lyric highlights the inhumane conditions many inmates endure in prison. The image of wrapping two blankets around oneself to fight off the cold is evocative of the desperation and resourcefulness inmates must employ to survive harsh conditions. The presence of roaches further emphasizes the discomfort and degradation faced by those behind bars.Another notable line in the song is "So, I had the thing under my pillow, that's my wifey, Got it sleeping on me, little banger that's my ninefy." Here, Meek Mill emphasizes the need for protection and the constant state of alertness prisoners must maintain. The weapon concealed under the pillow is referred to as "wifey," highlighting the iron grip the prison environment exerts on one's sense of safety. This lyric also touches upon the culture of violence that permeates prison life, as an individual's survival often depends on their ability to defend themselves.Meek Mill further delves into the daily struggles faced by inmates with the line "Sixty on commissary, they said I'm coming home like Nevuary." This lyric addresses the limited access to basic necessities and the often-overwhelming financial burdens inmates face. The mention of commissary, where inmates purchase essential items, reflects the reliance on personal funds to compensate for the inadequacies of prison-provided necessities. The inclusion of the term "Nevuary" represents the false hope and broken promises that inmates often experience when anticipating their release.Additionally, the lyric "Bitches love me like February" introduces the theme of emotional hardship and loneliness. The romantic attachment to February, traditionally associated with love and affection, juxtaposed with the harsh reality of incarceration, highlights the longing for human connection and the absence of intimacy in prison. It sheds light on the emotional toll being separated from loved ones takes on those behind bars.Meek Mill also offers an unexpected metaphorical theme in the line "And all my niggas here, we ain't never scared, With my clearance, loaded sweatsuit, I ain't gotta say a word to say I get loot." This lyric speaks to the resilience and strength found within the prison community. Despite the adversity they face, Meek Mill and his fellow inmates remain fearless and determined. The "clearance" of the loaded sweatsuit becomes a symbol of their unspoken power and ability to command respect within the confined world they find themselves in.Ultimately, "Koldjawn" serves as a poignant commentary on the dehumanizing experience of incarceration and the harsh realities faced by those behind bars. Meek Mill offers listeners a raw and introspective journey into the emotional and physical challenges, as well as the unexpected dynamics and themes that arise within the prison environment. Through vivid storytelling and thought-provoking lyrics, this song sheds light on a topic often overlooked, encouraging a broader conversation around the need for prison reform and the importance of acknowledging the humanity of those within the system.