Meaning of May Store by Westside Gunn

The Westside Gunn song "May Store" is a gritty and atmospheric track that delves into the world of street life and the struggles faced by its protagonists. From the opening verse by BENNY THE BUTCHER to the final moments by Keisha Plum, the song presents a vivid portrayal of the harsh realities and ruthless actions of those involved in the underground scene.The overall theme of "May Store" revolves around the pursuit of power and survival in a dangerous environment. It highlights the ruthlessness and violence that one must engage in to protect themselves and maintain their stature. The lyrics offer a glimpse into the experiences and mindset of characters who have learned to thrive under these circumstances.One standout lyric that contributes to this theme is found in Conway the Machine's verse: "Ayo, I'm in these streets waist deep. If I can't eat with you, you can't eat. That's how we give it up on May Street." Here, the idea of loyalty and trust within a cutthroat environment is explored. It emphasizes the belief that in order to survive, one must be selective in their allegiances and only associate themselves with those who share their dedication to success.Another impactful lyric is delivered by Westside Gunn in the final verse: "I'm a killer and I'm gonna kill again. I wrote this with a devilish grin. I'm lookin' at his neck full of gold. I know what kind of car he drove. Holy Ghost, his soul that Calico." This lyric delves into the dark and sinister nature of the characters depicted in the song. It portrays their willingness to take extreme measures, even to the point of ending someone's life, in pursuit of material gain and dominance.Furthermore, a key theme that emerges from the lyrics of "May Store" is the juxtaposition between wealth and violence. The artists use vivid imagery to depict their lavish lifestyles, such as BENNY THE BUTCHER's line "I went from heroin to a Merrill Lynch stock broker." This contrast between opulence and brutality serves to highlight the complexity of the characters involved in illicit activities. They are able to enjoy the spoils of their endeavors while constantly facing the threat of violence and danger.The lyrics also touch on the concept of social dynamics and power struggles within this underground world. BENNY THE BUTCHER states, "You pay that bitch rent, I ask that ho what she got for me. They know I'm up now, but my only hustle was not the streets." This lyric suggests that the characters have risen to power and influence through their intellect and shrewdness, rather than solely relying on criminal activities. It speaks to the idea of outsmarting opponents and using their own weaknesses against them.In conclusion, "May Store" is a song that explores the themes of power, survival, and the consequences of living a life engulfed in street culture. It delves into the mindset of characters who navigate the dangerous and cutthroat world with a devil-may-care attitude. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the lengths these individuals will go to protect themselves and maintain their positions of influence. Through unexpected themes and imaginative storytelling, the song ultimately sheds light on the complexities of life within the underground scene.