Meaning of Sidewalks by The Weeknd

The Weeknd's song "Sidewalks" explores the journey and struggles of an individual who rises from humble beginnings to achieve success. The overall theme of the song revolves around the idea that the sidewalks, metaphorical representations of the streets and the path taken by the artist, play a significant role in shaping his life and ultimately saving him. The song delves into various aspects of this journey, highlighting the artist's resilience, self-confidence, and the sacrifices made.One standout lyric in the song is "I ran out of tears when I was eighteen, so nobody made me, but the main streets." This lyric speaks to the artist's resilience and the challenges he faced growing up. The main streets symbolize the tough environment he grew up in, where tears and vulnerability were not an option. Instead of relying on others, the artist draws strength from within and finds his way forward.Another important lyric is "Homeless to Forbes List, these n****s bring no stress, I feel like Moses, I feel like I'm chosen." Here, the artist expresses his journey from being homeless to achieving success and recognition. The lyric highlights the theme of transformation and emphasizes the artist's belief in his own destiny. He feels like Moses, a biblical figure chosen to lead his people to a better future, further adding to the ambition and determination of the artist.The lyric "And if you ain't my n****, then your girl single to me, I don't give a damn if a n**** said he knew me" explores the artist's rise in popularity and the changing dynamics of his relationships. It touches upon themes of loyalty and the inevitable shift in social circles as success comes knocking. The artist prioritizes his own journey and success over others' opinions, showcasing his self-confidence."Grew up with no father, so nobody ever 'son' me" is a lyric that reflects the artist's upbringing and the absence of a father figure. It highlights the challenges he faced growing up, but also emphasizes his ability to rise above circumstances and become a self-made individual. The theme of resilience and independence runs deep in this line, contributing to the overall narrative of the song."My flow too sick, Kevin Costner couldn't touch me" is a line that speaks to the artist's confidence in his own abilities. It explores the idea that his talent is unparalleled and compares his prowess to that of an iconic actor. The metaphorical comparison adds an imaginative touch to the song, highlighting the artist's self-assured nature and determination to succeed.As the song progresses, it also touches on the price of success. The lyric "Every time you see me pullin' up in Aventadors, just know we been grindin' on them sidewalks" showcases the artist's hard work and the sacrifices made to achieve his dreams. It suggests that beneath the glamour and luxury lies an arduous journey that often goes unnoticed. The theme of perseverance and dedication to one's craft resonates strongly in this line.Overall, "Sidewalks" captures the essence of The Weeknd's journey towards success and the obstacles he faced along the way. The various standout lyrics in the song contribute to developing intricate and imaginative themes that all tie back to the overarching theme of resilience, self-confidence, and the transformative power of one's own determination. The song serves as a reminder that the pathway to success is rarely smooth, but by embracing the challenges and relying on one's own abilities, incredible achievements can be attained.