Meaning of Initiation by The Weeknd

The Weeknd's song "Initiation" delves into a dark and alluring world, where the lines between pleasure and danger become blurred. The overall theme of the song centers around hedonism and the temptation to indulge in excessive and questionable behaviors. It explores the allure of a wild night out, but also the consequences and repercussions that accompany such a lifestyle.One standout lyric from the song that helps develop this theme is "Oh, yeah, got you drinking out them white cups, sodas. All this shit so foreign to you, thick smoke, choking." This lyric sets the tone for the rest of the song, describing a scene where the protagonist introduces someone to a world that is unfamiliar and exotic. It suggests that the person being spoken to is naive and easily impressed by the extravagant and dangerous elements of this lifestyle.Another important lyric is "She climbing, straight to the top, forgetting why she there in the first place. No more crying, heart rate slow, put that rum down you don't wanna die tonight." This lyric explores the theme of losing oneself in the pursuit of success and pleasure. It depicts a woman who is driven by ambition but has become disconnected from her original intentions. The cautionary message in this lyric warns against getting caught up in the moment and forgetting the real purpose behind one's actions."For my niggas out tonight, and they high off Shakespeare lines. There's enough to pass around, you don't gotta wait in line" is another powerful lyric that contributes to the song's themes. It represents the allure of substance abuse and the desire to escape reality. The reference to Shakespeare lines adds an unexpected twist, suggesting that the protagonist and his friends are seeking intellectual and artistic stimulation through their drug-induced haze. It raises questions about the relationship between creative inspiration and self-destructive tendencies."And the clocks don't work, you