The Meaning Behind The Song: LUST. by Kendrick Lamar
The Story Behind Kendrick Lamar’s “LUST.”: A Deep Dive
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Kendrick Lamar’s 2017 album DAMN. is a masterpiece that explores various themes like love, faith, and struggle. One of the standout tracks on the album is “LUST.” It’s a song that delves into the complexities of human desire and the negative effects of excess. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning behind “LUST.” and how it fits into the overarching narrative of DAMN.
The Lyrics: A Breakdown
The first verse of the song sets the tone for what’s to come. Kendrick begins by rapping about how people are consumed by their desires, even if it’s at the expense of their health and wellbeing. He says:
“I need some water
Somethin’ came over me
Way too hot to simmer down
Might as well overheat
Too close to comfort
As blood rush my favorite vein
Heartbeat racing like a junkie’s
I just need you to want me
Am I askin’ too much?”
Here, Kendrick is describing the physical sensations he experiences when he’s consumed by lust. He compares it to an addiction, saying his “heartbeat” races like a “junkie’s.” Interestingly, he closes the verse by asking a question: “Am I askin’ too much?” This question is rhetorical and implies that he knows he’s asking for too much, but can’t help himself.
The second verse tackles the topic of excess and how it can lead to negative consequences. Kendrick raps:
“Wake up in the mornin’, thinkin’ ’bout money, kick your feet up
Watch you a comedy, take time out for some leisure
Napkins on lapkin, lookin’ like a fool for ya
Diamonds and dining, they’ll swallow your dreams and your money and it’s
okay
And I’m invitin’ you to fuck it ain’t no shame in front of me”
Here, Kendrick talks about the pitfalls of materialism and the culture of excess that we live in. He describes how people’s desires for wealth and luxury can lead them to make questionable decisions — for example, going into debt for items they can’t afford. Kendrick’s repetition of “it’s okay” is particularly poignant: it’s a reflection of how many people justify their indulgences, even when they know they’re not sustainable.
The Theme: An Exploration of Lust and Excess
It’s clear that “LUST.” is about the dangers of giving into our desires and the excess that often follows. This theme is explored in several ways throughout the song. For example, Kendrick switches up his flow for the chorus, saying:
“I need some water
Somethin’ came over me
Way too hot to simmer down
Might as well overheat”
Here, the repetition of “I need some water” emphasizes how overwhelming and all-consuming lust can be. Kendrick’s flow to a more staccato rhythm near the end of the chorus also gives the listener a sense of urgency; he’s trying to convey how hard it is to control our desires when they take over.
The theme of excess is also explored in the instrumental choices in the song. The minimalistic beat and sparse instrumentation create a sense of emptiness that mirrors the hollowness of an excess-filled life. The intermittent sounds of a cough in the background highlight the harsh reality that comes with indulging in addictive habits.
Ultimately, “LUST.” is a cautionary tale about the price we pay when we give in to our desires. Kendrick asks his listeners to reflect on what truly matters in life and let go of the excess that can lead us astray.
The Larger Narrative of DAMN.
In the context of the rest of DAMN., “LUST.” takes on even greater meaning. The album as a whole explores the idea of duality and the struggle between good and evil. “LUST.” fits right in with this theme, as Kendrick raps about the dangers of giving into our “evil” desires that can lead us down a dark path.
The song also alludes to the earlier track “LOVE.” In “LOVE.”, Kendrick raps about how love can be a force that brings people together and fills a void in our lives. In contrast, “LUST.” shows the negative effects of filling that same void with material desires and excess.
Overall, “LUST.” is a crucial part of the narrative of DAMN. It shows Kendrick grappling with some of the most important and complicated parts of living as a human being; it forces us to confront our own vulnerabilities and desires.
Closing Thoughts
“LUST.” is a powerful song that explores themes that are relevant to us all. Its exploration of excess and desire are as relevant today as ever, and it reminds us to reflect on how we choose to live our lives. Kendrick’s ability to distill these complex ideas into a few verses and a beat is a testament to his skill as a musician and artist.
