Meaning of Ocean Prime by Westside Gunn

In Westside Gunn's song "Ocean Prime," the overall theme revolves around power, resilience, and the pursuit of success in a ruthless world. The lyrics depict the struggles and triumphs of individuals navigating the harsh realities of life, ranging from street violence to drug trafficking. With vivid storytelling and a unique blend of witty wordplay, the song takes us on a journey that touches on various themes and motifs. Let's delve into some of the standout lyrics that contribute to the development of these themes.The opening lines of the song immediately set the tone as Gunn says, "Ayo, the first body made me anemic, Draco up close." This lyric carries themes of violence and the consequences that come with it. It captures the ruthless nature of the streets, where taking a life can leave a profound impact on one's mental and physical state.Gunn continues, "Thousand and eight grams, parade it, turbo take hands. Shake hands with the devil, I send shootout to take lane." Here, the lyrics touch upon the theme of the drug trade and its association with corruption. The reference to a vast quantity of drugs symbolizes the power that comes with being involved in this dangerous world. It highlights the willingness to engage in illicit activities and make compromises in pursuit of success.Moving forward, the lyric "Stefano Ricci, looking richer, got extendos on the glizzy" merges themes of fashion and violence. Stefano Ricci, a luxury brand known for its extravagant designs, represents the desire for wealth and opulence. However, the mention of "extendos on the glizzy," referring to extended magazines on a firearm, juxtaposes this desire with the inherent violence and danger that accompanies such a lifestyle.Another noteworthy lyric occurs when Gunn raps, "You hit everything to show you positive, nobody live." This line speaks to the perpetual cycle of violence and retaliation that plagues the streets. It suggests that acts of aggression are often driven by the desire to establish dominance or prove oneself, ultimately leading to a world where nobody truly survives. This theme sheds light on the desperation and constant struggle that exists within the narrative of the song.Busta Rhymes, who features on Verse 2, adds layers of complexity with lyrics like "I'm into planting seeds of bard, farmers toss the soil." Here, the theme of growth and cultivation emerges. The metaphorical seeds symbolize the opportunities one cultivates in life, and the need to nurture them with care. It speaks to the idea of creating a foundation for success and using resources wisely.Rhymes continues with "Appreciate it's just a jux, now slide the coca pronto." This lyric delves into the theme of deception and betrayal. It suggests that in a world driven by personal gain, loyalty can be fleeting. It showcases the lengths individuals are willing to go to exploit one another, even among purported allies.Slick Rick, joining in Verse 3, adds his own dimension to the song by including the theme of societal expectations. His lines, "Is I was scared, eventual kid come out as pashas," showcase the pressures to conform and succeed according to societal norms. The idea of disguising fear or vulnerability in order to maintain an image speaks to the sacrifices individuals make in pursuit of power and recognition.Overall, "Ocean Prime" weaves a tapestry of themes and motifs that explore the gritty reality of the streets and the lengths individuals go to in order to thrive amidst chaos. Through its vivid storytelling and imaginative wordplay, the song encapsulates the struggles, triumphs, and complexities of a world driven by power and survival. It serves as a reminder of the precarious nature of success and the compromises one may have to make along the way.