Meaning of FISHTAIL by Westside Gunn

In Westside Gunn's song "FISHTAIL," the overall theme can be interpreted as a journey of self-discovery and embracing individuality. Through introspective lyrics, the song explores the artist's personal experiences and growth, addressing the challenges faced in the pursuit of success while staying true to oneself.One standout lyric in the song is "Hawthorne, California, years that I was formin' up," which sets the tone for the narrative. This line speaks to the artist's formative years, highlighting the importance of one's upbringing in shaping their identity. The theme developed here is the influence of environment on personal development. Hawthorne, California, represents a specific location where the artist's journey began, indicating the significance of early experiences in building resilience and determination.Another memorable lyric is "Execute ideas and accumulate multi-millions." This line encapsulates the artist's drive for success and the importance of taking action to bring ideas to fruition. It delves into the theme of ambition and the willingness to work hard to achieve one's goals. The concept of accumulating multi-millions not only refers to financial success but also symbolizes the achievement of personal fulfillment.The line "Get a bigger house with a kitchen to cook our meals in" serves as a metaphorical representation of progress and stability. It expresses the desire for a better life where basic needs are met comfortably. This theme speaks to the pursuit of financial security and the ability to provide for oneself and loved ones. It reflects the artist's personal aspirations as well as a universal desire for a sense of security and comfort.One thematic element further explored in the song is the concept of individuality. The lyric "Them niggas that look like me treat my nuance as a nuisance" reflects the artist's struggle to be accepted and understood within his own community. This highlights the theme of embracing uniqueness and refusing to conform to societal expectations. The artist's refusal to be limited or defined by the blueprint others impose upon him represents the triumph of self-expression and authenticity.The repetition of the hook, "I'm fishtailin', ain't no tellin' if I'm out of control," reinforces the theme of embracing chaos and taking risks. It speaks to the unpredictable nature of life and the need to adapt and flow with the challenges that arise. This theme emphasizes the importance of resilience and flexibility as one navigates their journey.In the second verse, the lyric "Livin' every day to the fullest, but move in silence" explores the theme of finding balance in life. It highlights the importance of cherishing each day while maintaining a sense of humility and privacy. This lyric encourages individuals to appreciate life's joys and live authentically without seeking external validation.Overall, "FISHTAIL" dives deep into Westside Gunn's personal journey of self-discovery, resilience, and embracing individuality. The song explores themes of personal growth, ambition, environmental influence, embracing uniqueness, adaptation, and finding balance. Each lyric contributes to the overarching theme of the artist's journey, capturing the challenges and triumphs faced along the way. Through introspection and imaginative storytelling, the song encourages listeners to stay true to themselves and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.