Meaning of "The Bends" by Earl Sweatshirt
The lyrics of "The Bends" by Earl Sweatshirt convey a sense of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. He begins by emphasizing the strength of unity, stating that despite their limited resources, they will bend but not break. Earl then alludes to success and the need to adapt and relocate to maintain stability. He presents himself as the puppet master, in control of his destiny and the direction of his career. The line "Peace to my man's, gotta go be with your fam more" reveals his appreciation for the importance of family and the need for balance in life. Despite his rising success, he still feels like the landlord, responsible for his own destiny.
Earl reflects on his humble beginnings, reminiscing about wearing Dickies and dirty JanSports. These humble symbols represent a time of struggle and hard work. He asserts that he was a jack of all trades, dealing with various challenges and obstacles. The repetition of the line "Bend, we don't break, we not the bank" reinforces the theme of resilience, asserting that they will not be broken. Memories of a loved one's face appear in the lyrics, possibly indicating the importance of holding onto personal connections and cherishing loved ones.
As the lyrics progress, Earl delves into the changes that success brings. He comments on how the checks they now see are handsome, suggesting a financial improvement. He mentions Mike WiLLy, a producer known for his collaborations with various artists, highlighting their success in the music industry. Earl recognizes the need to capitalize on these opportunities and explains how they have gained the upper hand by "taxing" and outsmarting their rivals. However, he also alludes to the presence of bad blood and the need to be cautious while navigating the industry.
Earl references a heart being torn in the past, suggesting a previous experience of betrayal or heartbreak. He advises his listeners to prioritize financial stability, urging them to secure cash before pursuing romantic interests. The line "Hard hung heads might starve in the end" warns against complacency and emphasizes the importance of financial security. Earl also encourages seeking guidance and support from influential figures like Mos Def (known as Yasiin Bey), highlighting the value of wise counsel.
In the latter part of the lyrics, Earl returns to the theme of resilience and determination. He emphasizes the need to escape unfavorable situations, urging his "queens" to carry mace and maintain faith while staying on the run. The line "Game isn't cheap" suggests the complex and competitive nature of the music industry, cautioning against the potential price one may have to pay for success.
Overall, "The Bends" conveys Earl Sweatshirt's journey and growth within the music industry. The lyrics underscore the importance of staying true to oneself, maintaining resilience, and prioritizing personal connections and financial stability. Earl offers advice and insight, warning against the pitfalls and games that can come with success while encouraging his listeners to remain disciplined and focused.
