Meaning of Horses On Sunset by Westside Gunn

In Westside Gunn's song "Horses On Sunset," the lyrics delve into themes of violence, wealth, and the complexities of street life. The song maintains the gritty aesthetic that is characteristic of the Griselda crew, while also exploring deeper layers of meaning. While the overall theme of the song seems to revolve around the glamour and dangers associated with the street life, it offers multiple standout lyrics that contribute to the development of unexpected and imaginative themes. Let's take a closer look.One standout lyric in the song is, "Ayo, I'm up at Horses eatin' cornish hens (Ah). I got the Benz parked on Sunset, sink or swim (Ah)." This lyric showcases the contrast between luxury and danger, juxtaposing the act of enjoying a lavish meal with the unpredictability of survival on the streets. It highlights the precarious balance between indulging in opulence and navigating a treacherous environment.Another notable line is, "They say Jesus was a carpenter. I'm a shooter though (Boom, boom, boom)." Here, Westside Gunn draws a parallel between Jesus, who was known for his humility and peaceful message, and his own role as a shooter in the streets. This lyric suggests that even in a world driven by violence, there is room for self-reflection and introspection. It emphasizes the irony of finding spirituality and purpose amidst a backdrop of chaos.The line "If we get pulled, put this in your pussy hole" may seem crude at first, but upon analysis, it speaks to the idea of trust and loyalty. In the context of the song, where survival and secrecy are paramount, the lyric suggests the need to safeguard important information at all costs. It highlights the bond formed between individuals living in high-stakes situations, where even the most unconventional methods are employed to ensure the safety and success of the collective.Moving on, the lyric "She smoked her teeth out, her and G and G had came through" offers a glimpse into the consequences of street life. It suggests that the character in the song has encountered someone from his past who has suffered a significant decline in their physical well-being, potentially due to drug abuse or other destructive habits. It underscores the reality of the harsh consequences that come with the choices made in this lifestyle, serving as a warning against being consumed by the street's allure.In the chorus, the repeated line "They said they shot him six times, I said you should've shot him seven, then he could've died" conveys a cold, callous attitude toward violence. It reflects a mentality where taking a life is considered less significant than asserting dominance and maintaining a reputation. This theme ties back to the overall theme of the song, illustrating the brutal nature of the street life and the disregard for human life that can sometimes prevail.The intriguing outro, featuring the auctioneer's bidding on a painting of Marilyn Monroe, introduces an unexpected theme of art and wealth. The juxtaposition of a high-stakes auction with the gritty lyrics of the song raises questions about the intersections between art, money, and street culture. It suggests that even in the most chaotic environments, there remains an appreciation for beauty and the pursuit of wealth, albeit through alternative means.Overall, "Horses On Sunset" captures the multifaceted nature of street life with unexpected and imaginative themes. Through its lyrics, the song explores the delicate balance between opulence and danger, spirituality and violence, loyalty and self-preservation. It presents a complex portrait of individuals navigating a treacherous world and showcases the tension between pursuing wealth while facing the consequences that come with it. Ultimately, the song serves as a window into the harsh reality and conflicting emotions that exist within the realm of street culture.