Meaning of Gorilla Monsoon by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled 'Gorilla Monsoon' is a rap track that encompasses various themes related to street life, success, and artistic expression. Through its gritty lyrics and vivid imagery, the song portrays the lifestyles of the artists and sheds light on their journeys to success.One standout lyric in the song is, "Ayo—I was in my cell, I clicked my heels three times." This line paints a picture of someone who has experienced a rough past or faced adversity, but has now found a way to escape their troubles. This theme of personal transformation and leaving behind a difficult past is a powerful theme throughout the song.Another notable lyric is, "Platinum and gold, Ron English hat to the side." This line hints at the artists' newfound success and wealth. It underscores the idea that they have risen above their previous circumstances and are now enjoying the finer things in life. The juxtaposition of luxury items and street culture creates an interesting contrast that adds depth to the song.The lyric, "Choppin' on dishes, grab the pot for ambition, we had hopped over fences" suggests the determination and tenacity required to succeed. It highlights the artists' willingness to take risks and break barriers in order to achieve their goals. The dish metaphor symbolizes the hustle and grind necessary to make it in the music industry, while hopping over fences signifies overcoming obstacles and societal norms.Additionally, the line, "Jeff Koons, Louie Rubens duffle got ten in it" references the intersection of art and material wealth. Jeff Koons is a renowned contemporary artist known for his expensive sculptures, while Louie Rubens represents luxury fashion. This lyric suggests that the artists have not only achieved financial success but also have a deep appreciation for art and creative expression. It conveys the message that artistic endeavors can lead to financial success and vice versa.Moving on to MF DOOM's verse, the lyric, "Phony, it gets lonely at the finish" touches on the theme of authenticity and staying true to oneself. It suggests that in a world where many compromise their values for success, maintaining one's integrity can be a lonely path. This verse encourages listeners to stay true to their beliefs and resist the temptations of conformity.Another standout line is, "Yellow, moist, mushie; banana-peeled coke, At worst; could not be confused with real soap." This particular lyric brings forward the theme of deception and illusion. It speaks to the idea that things are not always what they seem, and looks can often be deceiving. This theme extends beyond the obstacles faced in the streets to the broader notion of navigating life and deciphering the genuine from the counterfeit.In conclusion, 'Gorilla Monsoon' explores various themes ranging from personal transformation, success, determination, art, authenticity, and illusion. Each lyric contributes to the overall narrative of the song, highlighting the artists' respective journeys, and weaving together a captivating tale of triumph over adversity. Through their imaginative storytelling and vivid imagery, Westside Gunn and MF DOOM deliver a thought-provoking piece of music that encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys and the themes that shape their lives.