Meaning of Raw by Meek Mill

The Meek Mill song titled "Raw" delves into various themes related to money, power, and success. It presents a gritty portrayal of the rapper's life and the hustle that comes with it. Throughout the lyrics, Meek Mill vividly describes his extravagant lifestyle and his determination to rise above his circumstances. While the song may seem straightforward on the surface, a closer examination reveals multifaceted themes that contribute to the overall narrative.One standout lyric is, "You on some bullshit, with that point like Eric Snow." This line draws a parallel between Meek Mill's drive for success and the basketball player Eric Snow's determination on the court. By comparing his ambition to the focused point guard, Meek Mill reinforces the idea that he is navigating his own "game" and hustling in pursuit of his goals. This theme of ambition and determination is integral to the overall message of the song, highlighting the importance of never backing down or settling for less.Another interesting lyric is, "Have her try to bust my windows out like Jazmine Sullivan." Here, Meek Mill refers to the R&B singer Jazmine Sullivan's song "Bust Your Windows," which tells the story of a woman seeking revenge against her unfaithful partner. This lyric presents a contrasting theme of vulnerability and the potential consequences of engaging in multiple relationships. It suggests that while Meek Mill may appear strong and successful, he also faces challenges and risks losing what he has worked hard to achieve.The line "They whole clique suck my dick, that's team chewy" introduces the theme of dominance and control. Meek Mill's assertion of power over others becomes a manifestation of his success. However, it also speaks to the notion that loyalty can be bought and is frequently a commodity within certain circles. This theme reflects the harsh reality of Meek Mill's world, where relationships can be transactional, and trust is scarce.Additionally, Meek Mill mentions wanting to "feed [his] grandson" with the money he earns. This reveals the underlying theme of generational wealth and providing for future generations. It signifies Meek Mill's desire to transcend the struggles of his past and establish a legacy for his family. This aspiration adds depth to the song, illustrating Meek Mill's understanding of the long-term impact of his hustle and highlighting the importance of financial security.The lyric "black flooded rollie on, looking like a flashlight" introduces the theme of materialism and the significance of physical appearances within the hip-hop culture. It captures the idea that wealth and success are often quantified by expensive possessions. The "flooded" Rolex watch symbolizes Meek Mill's financial success and demands attention, underscoring the materialistic desires prevalent within the rap industry. This theme reinforces the larger narrative of Meek Mill's journey to attain status and recognition.Ultimately, the overarching theme of "Raw" centers around the pursuit of success, fame, and wealth. The song incorporates various imaginative and unexpected themes such as ambition, vulnerability, dominance, generational wealth, and materialism. Through thought-provoking lyrics, Meek Mill illustrates the complexities and challenges that accompany his journey, shedding light on the realities of his world and the sacrifices he must make. "Raw" serves as an anthem for those striving to overcome adversity and make their mark on the rap industry, delivering an unfiltered portrayal of the hustle necessary to achieve dreams.