Meaning of Lessie by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song titled "Lessie" carries a raw and gritty aesthetic that is synonymous with the artist. The overall theme of the song centers around the harsh realities of street life, including drug dealing, violence, and the constant struggle for survival. Through vivid and sometimes metaphorical imagery, Westside Gunn paints a picture of the ruthless environment he comes from.One standout lyric that helps develop the themes of the song is "Don't mind me speakin' coke, I talk it fluent, Word to ChineGun, I dropped the brick, it came back congruent." This lyric showcases the artist's familiarity and comfort with the drug trade. The metaphorical language used hints at the calculated nature of his operations, where dropping a brick and having it return as congruent symbolizes a successful and profitable endeavor. This theme highlights the sheer audacity and confidence required to thrive in such a dangerous world.Another impactful lyric is "Yo, the kick on the MAC like Aleister Black, Black got caught, he ain't never came back." This lyric intertwines the world of illicit activities with popular culture, comparing the recoil of a MAC-10 firearm to the powerful kick of a professional wrestler. The mention of Aleister Black, a wrestler known for his ferocity, further adds to the intensity and danger associated with the artist's lifestyle. The reference to someone named Black who never returned reflects the unforgiving nature of the streets, where individuals who cross certain lines can meet a tragic end. This theme explores the inevitability of consequences and the constant threat of violence lurking within this world.Moving on, Keisha Plum's verse introduces a new perspective, providing a femme fatale presence amidst the otherwise male-dominated narrative. Plum's lyric "Niggas will put a price on your life and won't think twice" highlights the treacherous nature of the streets and emphasizes the innate ruthlessness present in this underworld. This lyric speaks to the value placed on lives within the criminal world, where betrayal and retaliation can occur without hesitation. It showcases the heightened level of suspicion and mistrust that permeates these circles, further emphasizing the theme of survival.Furthermore, Plum's vivid imagery in the lyric "I'm the ghetto Diana Ross, he's the hood Billy Dee" takes on a metaphorical meaning within the larger context of the song. This line compares their respective roles within the street narrative to iconic figures from entertainment history. It adds a layer of glamour to the otherwise gritty and dangerous world they inhabit, highlighting their confidence and influence within their community. This theme explores the duality of their personas, where they find power and allure in their roles, similarly to how Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams captivated audiences through their performances.Lastly, the outro by Westside Pootie, while comically contrasting the dark themes present in the song, still adds to the overarching narrative. Pootie boasts about their wealth and opulent lifestyle, juxtaposing their own success against those who imitate them but remain unsuccessful. This theme of material wealth emphasizes the desire for success and the pursuit of a better life, which often drives individuals to engage in illicit activities. It also suggests that the culture of street life has become a source of inspiration and imitation for others, highlighting the influence and impact of this lifestyle.In conclusion, "Lessie" delves deep into the realities and complexities of street life, providing a vivid and unfiltered glimpse into a world characterized by danger, survival, and the pursuit of success. Through its standout lyrics, the song explores themes such as audacity and confidence, consequences and violence, survival and betrayal, glamour and allure, and the culture of imitation. Each of these themes adds depth and richness to the overall narrative, showcasing the multifaceted nature of street life and the individuals who navigate its treacherous waters.