Meaning of London Fog by Westside Gunn

In Westside Gunn's melodically gritty track 'London Fog,' the Buffalo rapper effortlessly weaves vivid imagery and thought-provoking lyrics to deliver an artistic narrative that reflects the themes of survival, the allure of materialism, and the harsh realities of street life. The song's overall theme revolves around the juxtaposition between the opulence and danger associated with the street lifestyle.One standout lyric that emphasizes this theme is when Westside Gunn raps, "I'm out in London rockin' London Fog, before I ever starve I'ma fuckin' rob." Here, the artist highlights the desperation and determination to survive, even if it means resorting to criminal activities. The reference to "London Fog" not only alludes to the brand, symbolizing a luxurious fashion sense, but also acts as a metaphor for the hazy, ominous world that Westside Gunn navigates.Another intriguing lyric comes in the line, "I been locked up for guns and drugs, guns and drugs, you can keep all the money, I'ma just take the guns and drugs." This lyric delves into the allure of the street life, where material possessions and money pale in comparison to the power and status acquired through involvement in illegal activities. It suggests that Westside Gunn places a higher value on the tools necessary for survival and dominance, rather than the superficial gains that are often associated with success.Lord Apex's verse adds another layer to the song's themes. In his verse, he raps, "That woolong tea and my meditative stance means I get shit, regret quick and change to some vex." Here, he introduces the idea of finding solace and mental clarity in the midst of chaos. The reference to "woolong tea" and "meditative stance" implies a Zen-like state that allows him to adapt quickly to his surroundings. This theme of finding peace in the chaos ties back to the overall theme of survival and speaks to the resilience required to navigate the unpredictable journey of street life.The haunting outro of the song further enhances the themes through spoken word excerpts, describing the fog-shrouded streets and the chaos that ensues as a result. The use of emergency flares and the reference to Britain being "back in the dark ages" adds layers of depth to the lyrics. It paints a picture of a society consumed by darkness, both figuratively and literally, paralleling the harsh realities of the street lifestyle and the toll it takes on its participants.Through these standout lyrics, 'London Fog' encapsulates the allure and dangers associated with the street life. The song's themes revolve around survival, the attraction to materialism, and the harsh realities one faces when immersed in a world where the line between success and tragedy is razor-thin. Westside Gunn's masterful wordplay and storytelling ability create a rich tapestry of imagery that challenges listeners to reflect on the choices people make when faced with limited options and the lengths they go to secure their place in the world. Ultimately, 'London Fog' serves as a reminder of the complexities and consequences that come with living on the edge of society's norms.