Meaning of Déjà vu by Nas

In Nas' song "Déjà vu," the overall theme revolves around the cyclical nature of life and the repetitive patterns that can be observed in society. Through his thought-provoking lyrics, Nas weaves a tapestry of interconnected ideas that touch on various aspects of life, from societal issues to personal struggles. Each standout lyric within the song explores a different facet of these themes, contributing to the greater message that Nas is conveying.One of the key lyrics that stands out is "I unfold the scroll, plant seeds to stampede the globe." This line symbolizes the power of knowledge and the ability to leave a lasting impact on the world. It speaks to the idea that the actions we take today can have far-reaching consequences, shaping the future for generations to come. The theme that emerges here is the importance of education and enlightenment in empowering individuals to make a difference in the world.Another striking lyric is "police paying me to give in my gun, trick my wisdom with the system that imprisons my son." This line delves into the deep-rooted issues of systemic oppression and racial inequality. Nas highlights how society can manipulate and exploit individuals, ultimately perpetuating a cycle of violence and injustice. This theme delves into the struggle for equality and the need for systemic change to break free from the cycle of oppression.Moving further into the song, Nas touches on the cycle of crime with the lyric "niggas come home, some'll go in, do a bullet, come back, and do the same shit again." This line speaks to the never-ending cycle of violence and criminal behavior that can plague certain communities. It explores the complexities of breaking free from these cycles, showing how difficult it can be when the environment and circumstances perpetuate the same patterns of behavior.Building on this idea of cycles, Nas uses the following line, "from the womb to the tomb, I presume the unpredictable, guns salute life rapidly, that's the ritual." Here, he delves into the inevitability of life and death, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of existence. The theme that emerges here is the fragility of life and the recognition that death is an undeniable aspect of the human experience. It prompts reflection on how we choose to spend our time and the impact we leave behind.Within the chorus, the repeated phrase "Déjà Vu, it's like a whole new beginning" ties all these themes together. It suggests that despite the recurring patterns we observe in life, there is always the potential for transformation and renewal. This theme speaks to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to break free from the chains of repetition.In conclusion, Nas' song "Déjà vu" explores a multitude of themes centered around the cyclical nature of life. Each standout lyric paints a vivid picture and delves into unexpected and imaginative themes, all contributing to the overarching message of the song. It challenges listeners to reflect on various societal issues, from education and empowerment to systemic oppression and the cycle of crime. Ultimately, through its thought-provoking lyrics, "Déjà vu" evokes a sense of introspection and encourages listeners to break free from the repetitive patterns that can define our lives.