Meaning of ​John Carpenter by The Weeknd

In The Weeknd's song, "John Carpenter," the overall theme revolves around the concept of power, control, and the influence it can have on an individual's mindset and actions. The lyrics amplify this theme by delving into various unexpected and imaginative themes that ultimately tie back to this overarching concept.The standout lyric, "30 shots up in my Glock, I call Steph Curry," immediately grabs attention due to its reference to the basketball player. This particular line establishes a connection between power, precision, and dominance. Steph Curry, known for his exceptional three-point shooting skills, signifies the ability to control the outcome of a game and assert dominance over opponents. The Weeknd ingeniously uses this reference to symbolize his own power and control, suggesting that he possesses the ability to dictate the course of events in his own life with precision and force.Another lyric that highlights the theme of power and control is, "From the trap where they serve it 'til they pay for the bag." Here, the idea of a trap is employed metaphorically to represent a place where drugs are sold illegally. This lyric suggests that The Weeknd possesses a level of control over those around him, similar to the grip that drugs can have on an individual's life. It explores the theme of power dynamics and the allure of control that can emerge in certain situations. The Weeknd's ability to serve and collect money metaphorically represents his influence and dominance, demonstrating his control over the situation.Additionally, the lyrics "I'm the voice of the trap" and "Paint the ceiling with my nigga's brain" contribute to the theme of power and control in unexpected ways. "I'm the voice of the trap" implies that The Weeknd holds a significant level of influence and authority within a specific community or industry. It suggests that he is not only a participant but a leader, shaping and guiding the path of those around him. The line "Paint the ceiling with my nigga's brain" takes an unexpected turn, using a graphic imagery to represent the extent to which The Weeknd's power and control may extend. This line unveils the dark and ruthless side of control, highlighting the lengths he is willing to go to maintain his position and protect his influence.Finally, the lyric "Finger-fuckin' with that Glock, I'm John Carpenter" intertwines the theme of power and control with a reference to the famous filmmaker John Carpenter. Carpenter is known for his horror movies, which often explore themes of fear, manipulation, and the dark side of the human psyche. The Weeknd's mention of Carpenter creates a connection between his own power and control and the sense of fear and manipulation that can accompany it. This lyric suggests that The Weeknd's influence over others may come with a level of intimidation, creating a parallel between his control and the chilling atmospheres often seen in Carpenter's movies.By examining the unexpected and imaginative themes present in the lyrics of "John Carpenter," it becomes clear that the song revolves around the overarching concept of power, control, and the influence it yields over individuals. The Weeknd skillfully incorporates references and imagery to illuminate different aspects of this theme, exploring the depths of control, dominance, and the consequences they may entail. Through his lyrics, he encourages listeners to examine the complexities of power dynamics in various contexts, leaving us to contemplate the effects of control on our own lives.