Meaning of The Tide by Nas

In Nas and Hit-Boy's powerful collaboration, "The Tide," the artists delve deep into a range of themes that captivate the listener's attention. The song addresses various aspects of life, from personal struggles to societal challenges, all while staying true to its central theme of resilience and a relentless pursuit of success.One standout lyric in the song is when Hit-Boy raps, "When you make it from the bottom, they gon' come for your top." This lyric explores the theme of envy and the challenges that arise when one achieves success. Hit-Boy delves into the idea that when you come from humble beginnings and rise to the top, there will always be individuals who want to bring you down and take your place. This theme resonates with many listeners who face similar struggles in their own lives.Another striking lyric from Nas is, "Family we ain't seen in decades say he don't give to you." This lyric uncovers the theme of familial relationships and the complexities that can emerge as one achieves greater success. Nas provokes thought on the notion that even though you may have family members who have been absent for years, they suddenly reappear when they see you flourishing. It prompts reflection on the importance of discerning genuine support and understanding the impact of success on relationships.Hit-Boy further punctuates the song's themes as he raps, "They bite the hand that feeds 'em, your man is low-key competin'." This lyric touches upon the theme of loyalty and the challenges that arise amongst friends in the pursuit of individual success. It highlights the stark reality that some people, including close friends, may secretly harbor envy and compete against you instead of genuinely supporting your endeavors. This theme sheds light on the complexity of relationships as one navigates success, forcing individuals to be cognizant of those who may be hiding ulterior motives.Additionally, Nas contributes a thought-provoking lyric, "That's why the only thing I trust is my instinct." This line emphasizes the theme of self-reliance and the importance of trusting one's own intuition. It speaks to the idea that amidst the chaos and challenges of life, relying on one's gut feeling and inner voice is crucial. This theme resonates with listeners as it reminds them to tune into their instincts and make decisions that align with their true selves.As the song progresses, Hit-Boy and Nas seamlessly flow together, culminating in an empowering chorus that serves as a reflection of their shared resilience. The repetition of the line, "I stand above the surface, another purchase," reaffirms the central theme of rising above adversity and continually striving for success. It represents a testament to their unwavering determination and serves as an anthem of motivation for listeners.In "The Tide," Nas and Hit-Boy skillfully blend different themes to create a thought-provoking and impactful musical experience. They touch upon the complexities of success, familial relationships, loyalty, self-reliance, and the pursuit of individual goals. Through their lyrics, listeners are prompted to reflect on their own experiences and navigate the multitude of challenges that come with achieving personal success. Ultimately, "The Tide" serves as a reminder to stay true to oneself, trust one's instincts, and continually rise above the tide of obstacles that life may present.