Meaning of Don’t Trust a Soul (7th Avenue version) by Westside Gunn

In the gritty world of hip hop, Westside Gunn's track "Don’t Trust a Soul (7th Avenue version)" stands out as a raw and unapologetic exploration of trust, betrayal, and the consequences of deceit. The overall theme of the song revolves around the dangers of placing trust in others and the resulting consequences that can unfold. Throughout the lyrics, Westside Gunn weaves a narrative that reveals unexpected and imaginative themes, each serving to enhance the overarching theme of the song.One standout lyric that contributes to the themes of trust and betrayal is "Ayo, the rich saw Trump, shot up his whip, left him on the steering wheel slumped." This line raises the idea that no one, not even the rich and powerful, can fully escape the consequences of misplaced trust. It suggests that even those in positions of authority can fall victim to the schemes and manipulation of others. This theme of vulnerability in trust resonates throughout the track, reminding listeners to be cautious and skeptical of the intentions of those around them.Another powerful lyric that adds depth to the song's themes is "So Bape homies screaming 'Fuck Supreme,' laying on the cot it was all a dream." Here, Westside Gunn highlights the fickle nature of loyalty and the fragility of trust. Loyalties can shift and alliances crumble, leaving individuals feeling deceived and alone. The contrast between the two streetwear brands, Bape and Supreme, symbolizes the fickleness of allegiance, reflecting how trust can quickly disintegrate, leading to feelings of betrayal and the dissolution of relationships.The chorus itself, with lines such as "I don't trust a fuckin' soul, expect the sole on my Gucci loafers," emphasizes the main theme by indicating the limited trust Westside Gunn places in others. The sole on his Gucci loafers becomes a metaphorical representation of the only thing he can truly rely on. This imagery underscores the isolation and skepticism the artist feels, perhaps stemming from past experiences that have left him jaded and cautious.Moving further into the narrative, the line "Maniac with a gat, shopping cracks in hundred packs, Guess jumper triangle on the flat, blat" introduces the theme of survival. The aggressive and dangerous lifestyle depicted here symbolizes the extreme lengths people may go to protect themselves and maintain their trust in their own skills and abilities. Trusting oneself becomes a way to ensure survival in an unforgiving world where danger lurks around every corner.Finally, the lyric "I don't trust a motherfucking soul, nigga, fly shit, the illest shit ever, I can't even help myself, nigga, I'm god" presents an interesting twist in the themes explored. While trust in others may be heavily frowned upon or discouraged, this line suggests a sense of self-reliance and self-assuredness. Westside Gunn positions himself as a figure of authority and power, asserting that he is the only one worthy of his trust and admiration. This theme adds a layer of self-empowerment to the song, highlighting the importance of trusting one's own abilities and refusing to be dependent on others.In conclusion, "Don’t Trust a Soul (7th Avenue version)" by Westside Gunn delves into the complex world of trust and betrayal, cautioning listeners to be wary of placing trust in others. Through clever and imaginative lyrics, the song explores themes such as vulnerability, shifting allegiances, self-reliance, and survival. While the song's dark and gritty narrative may not adhere to conventional ideas of trust, it presents an honest and thought-provoking examination of the consequences of misplaced trust in a harsh and unforgiving world.