Meaning of Rosemary by Westside Gunn

In the realm of hip-hop, where lyrics often carry profound meaning and tell rich stories, Westside Gunn's song "Rosemary" stands out as a poignant and emotionally charged tribute to his beloved late grandmother. Through his lyrical prowess, Gunn explores various themes that revolve around love, gratitude, legacy, and the complexities of navigating life in challenging circumstances.The song opens with the hook, "If I gave you my love, if I gave you my love," which immediately sets the tone for the deep emotional connection between Westside Gunn and his grandmother. This emphasis on love becomes a recurring theme throughout the song, highlighting the powerful bond between them.One standout lyric that exemplifies the theme of gratitude is, "You the one that taught me how to tie my shoes, my ones and twos." Here, Westside Gunn acknowledges his grandmother's guidance and influence in his upbringing. The act of tying shoes symbolizes the life lessons she imparted to him, emphasizing the importance of family and the value of wisdom passed down through generations.Another notable lyric that enhances the overarching theme is, "We raised the booth, I pull up on side of them, make them race the Coupe." This line not only showcases Westside Gunn's success but also pays homage to his grandmother's unwavering support. The metaphor of racing the Coupe represents how she helped him overcome adversities, providing him the necessary foundation to thrive and achieve his dreams.Furthermore, the line, "You had me looking fresh up in my Sunday suit," carries multiple layers of meaning. On one hand, it reflects the grandmother's influence on Westside Gunn's appearance, demonstrating her love and care for him. On a deeper level, it symbolizes the ideas of respect, self-worth, and the importance of presenting oneself in the best possible light. This theme of personal presentation and dignity could be seen as a reflection of his grandmother's teachings and values.Amidst the expressions of love and gratitude, Westside Gunn also addresses the harsh realities and struggles encountered along the way. The line, "I remember church on a Sunday, we used to sell dope on a one way," showcases the juxtaposition between spirituality and the challenges faced in their environment. It explores themes of resilience, survival, and the influence of external circumstances on one's choices.The most emotionally intense moment of the song comes when Westside Gunn recalls the devastating loss of his grandmother with the lyrics, "And said granny not waking up, I swore that she was lying, I wished that she was lying." This emotional turmoil reveals the pain and grief experienced after her passing. The theme of loss and mourning adds a profound layer to the song, as Westside Gunn confronts his deepest emotions while reflecting on the impact his grandmother had on his life.Overall, "Rosemary" encapsulates a heartfelt tribute to Westside Gunn's grandmother. It incorporates a variety of themes, including love, gratitude, resilience, personal growth, legacy, and loss. Through his creative and vivid lyrics, Gunn paints a vivid picture of his personal journey, paying homage to his grandmother's profound influence and showcasing his own growth and success. The song serves as a reminder to cherish and appreciate the people who shape our lives, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and memories.