Meaning of Chyna by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled 'Chyna' is a gritty, hard-hitting track that dives deep into the world of street life and the harsh realities that come with it. The overall theme of the song revolves around power, violence, and survival. Through its raw lyrics and intense delivery, it gives listeners a glimpse into the dangerous and unforgiving world that Westside Gunn and Conway come from.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Just copped the Rollie with all ones, Mustard Goyard duffel with all guns." This line speaks to the connection between material wealth and the streets. It highlights the idea that in this environment, money and possessions are often acquired through illegal means and used as symbols of power and dominance. The mention of the Rollie watch and the Goyard duffel bag demonstrates a sense of extravagance and success amidst a chaotic and violent lifestyle.Another powerful lyric in the song is "Young-in like to fire his strap, I admire that." Here, the focus is on the admiration of a young person's willingness to resort to violence. It suggests a cycle where older individuals, like Westside Gunn and Conway, encourage and appreciate the next generation's involvement in criminal activities. This theme explores the notion of survival, where one's ability to assert dominance and protect themselves is crucial in this harsh environment.The line "Its 6 in the morning and still whippin', First day in the yard a Latin King ripped him" is yet another standout lyric that touches upon the theme of survival and the realities of incarceration. It portrays a scenario where someone finds themselves in a prison yard and becomes a victim of violence from a rival gang member. This particular lyric offers a glimpse into the world inside the prison walls, showcasing the constant threats and dangers that individuals face when incarcerated.Furthermore, the lyric "I was only 16 going half on the stick, Then I turned 19 went half on a brick" delves into the early involvement of individuals in the drug trade. It suggests that participation in illegal activities starts at a young age, with the protagonist going from sharing a gun at sixteen to becoming involved in larger drug deals at nineteen. This theme emphasizes the harsh reality that for some individuals, a life of crime becomes a means of survival and financial gain from an early age.Overall, the song 'Chyna' tackles themes of power, survival, violence, and the pursuit of wealth through illicit means. These themes are woven throughout the track's lyrics, each providing a different perspective and adding depth to the overall narrative. While the song may showcase the darker aspects of street life, it also offers a glimpse into the resilience and determination of individuals navigating this dangerous world. Through its vivid storytelling and evocative lyrics, 'Chyna' serves as a powerful testament to the realities of the street and the hustle necessary to survive within it.