Meaning of Nastradamus by Nas
The Nas song titled "Nastradamus" is a captivating piece that delves into multiple themes and emotions. At its core, the song explores Nas' transformation and legacy as he evolves from Nasty Nas to Esco to Escobar, ultimately leading to his present identity as Nastradamus. This evolution represents a journey of self-discovery and growth, as Nas navigates through various stages of his career and personal life.One standout lyric in the song is "You wanna ball 'till you fall, I can help you with that. You want beef? I could let a slug melt in your hat." These lines not only display Nas' prowess as a rapper, but also highlight the theme of power and dominance. Through his words, Nas asserts himself as someone who can either elevate or destroy an individual's dreams or reputation. This theme of power resonates throughout the song, showcasing Nas' command over his craft and the impact he can have on others.Another line that catches the listener's attention is "Century 21 solar eclipse, while you listening to the words that I wrote on the disc." This lyric introduces the theme of prophecy and mysticism. Nas refers to himself as Nastradamus, a play on the name of the famous astrologer Nostradamus. By adopting this moniker, Nas positions himself as a visionary, someone with the ability to foresee the future and offer insight through his music. This lyrical theme adds an element of intrigue and mystique to the song, enhancing its overall impact.The lyrics "Hood rats and bullet wound up females, got babies by hustlers and niggas in jail, slinging for chips and fiends with burnt finger tips" bring forth the theme of struggle and resilience. Nas vividly paints a picture of the harsh realities faced by those living in impoverished neighborhoods. Through these lyrics, he sheds light on the perseverance of individuals trapped in a cycle of poverty and crime. Nas' ability to empathize with and shed light on these issues is a testament to his storytelling skills and his desire to give a voice to the marginalized and overlooked.The final verse of the song contains the lyric "Now, lounge homeboy, you in the Godly zone, rest in peace, Ill Will, now your name's on the throne." This particular line showcases the theme of remembrance and legacy. Nas pays homage to his friend and collaborator, Ill Will, who has passed away. However, instead of mourning his loss, Nas celebrates his friend's legacy by affirming that his name will live on. This theme of honoring the memory and accomplishments of loved ones resonates deeply, as it reminds listeners to appreciate the impact individuals can have even after they are no longer with us.In conclusion, "Nastradamus" is a song that explores multiple themes, ranging from power and dominance to prophecy, struggle, and remembrance. Through clever and thought-provoking lyrics, Nas invites listeners to delve into his journey and the various personas he has embodied throughout his career. The song serves as a testament to Nas' growth as an artist and a reflection of the complex and multifaceted nature of human identity. With each lyrical theme adding depth and substance, "Nastradamus" continues to captivate and resonate with audiences, solidifying Nas' place as a rap icon.