Meaning of Gunnlib by Westside Gunn

In Westside Gunn's song titled "Gunnlib," the overall theme revolves around the artist's experiences and reflections on life in the streets. The song is characterized by its gritty lyrics and vivid storytelling, providing a glimpse into a world filled with danger, survival, and the pursuit of success. While the theme may seem straightforward at first, diving deeper into the standout lyrics reveals surprising and imaginative themes that add depth to the song.One standout lyric in the song is "Walked on water way before Jesus." This line, although seemingly blasphemous, reflects the artist's confidence and the belief that he possesses extraordinary abilities and power. It suggests a theme of self-assuredness and the idea that one can achieve greatness even in seemingly impossible circumstances.Another notable lyric is "Cooked the brick with no stove, pushed the gold Demon." This line portrays the artist's resourcefulness and entrepreneurial spirit. It highlights the theme of ingenuity and adaptability, showcasing how individuals in challenging environments find innovative ways to navigate their circumstances and succeed.The lyrics "Pole by the prayer rug, leave it. Now we gon' break fast, Louis for the remix" contribute to a thought-provoking theme of duality. It represents the juxtaposition of spirituality and materialism in the artist's life. On one hand, the prayer rug signifies faith and devotion, while on the other, the reference to Louis Vuitton exemplifies worldly desires and materialistic indulgence. This theme explores the complex nature of human existence, where individuals often find themselves torn between their spiritual beliefs and their material aspirations.The line "Five times a day, I did a hundred in a Bimmer" adds to the theme of resilience and determination. It conveys the artist's commitment to his craft and his willingness to put in the necessary effort to achieve his goals. This theme emphasizes the idea that success is not handed to us but requires consistent hard work and dedication.The chorus of the song, "Didn't hit 'em all, but it was close enough. Did it broad day, so you know it's us," presents a theme of audacity and fearlessness. It suggests a disregard for conventional norms and a willingness to take risks in order to gain recognition or respect. This theme explores the notion that sometimes breaking the rules or being unconventional can lead to success and recognition in environments where conformity is the norm.The second verse introduces the theme of cunning and strategy. The lyric "The saboteur going shopping, we ain't wanna kill him, all we wanna do is rob him" portrays the artist's ability to outsmart others and make calculated moves. This theme reflects the importance of shrewdness and calculated decision-making in navigating difficult situations.Overall, "Gunnlib" is a song that transcends its initial theme of life in the streets. Through its standout lyrics and imaginative themes, it delves into concepts such as self-assuredness, ingenuity, duality, resilience, audacity, and cunning. Westside Gunn's storytelling and vivid wordplay allow listeners to embark on an imaginative journey filled with unexpected and thought-provoking themes. It serves as a testament to the artist's ability to convey multiple layers of meaning and create a rich narrative within a single song.