The Meaning Behind The Song: Through The Wire by Kanye West
Kanye West is a rapper that has been known to have a unique approach to music. His artistic creativity is often disregarded, and this has made him a controversial figure in the music industry. One of his most significant hits, “Through The Wire,” released in 2003, is not only a testament to his creativity but also a fan favorite. The song has managed to capture the attention of many music enthusiasts and critics who continue to dissect its message. In this article, we take an in-depth look at the meaning behind the song “Through The Wire” by Kanye West.
The Accident That Inspired “Through The Wire”
Before getting into the message behind the song, it is essential to understand what inspired the song. In October 2002, Kanye West got into a near-fatal car accident. He suffered a severe jaw fracture, which led to him having his jaw wired shut. The weeks that followed were a tough period for Kanye West. He was in pain, struggled to speak, and ate through a straw.
However, he did not let that deter him from producing music. While his jaw was still wired shut, he recorded “Through The Wire” and performed the entire song while his mouth was still wired shut. The fact that he was dedicated to his craft despite his physical limitations is nothing short of heroic, and that, in itself, is the first message behind the song.
The Message Behind “Through The Wire”
“Through The Wire” is more than just a song. It is a story of bravery, resilience, and determination. It resonates with people, not only because of Kanye’s extraordinary experience of overcoming a nearly fatal car accident but also because of how he approached his adversity. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a man who was faced with overwhelming odds but refused to let them get him down.
The song’s chorus, “I’m living in that 21st century, doing something mean to it. Do it better than anybody you ever seen do it,” emphasizes the importance of being confident and standing out from the crowd. Kanye West’s ability to turn his tragedy into a masterpiece speaks volumes of his strength and the belief in himself. “Through The Wire” challenges the idea that adversity is an obstacle, instead of embracing it as an opportunity.
The Symbolism Behind The Lyrics
The lyrics in “Through The Wire” hold a deeper meaning that may be missed upon the first listen. In the opening lines, Kanye raps, “They can’t stop me from rapping. I’m still hungry,” emphasizing his passion for music and his refusal to let his limitations stop him from pursuing his dreams. The symbolism of hunger is essential. Kanye West had a hunger for success and a passion for music that even his wired jaw could not stop.
The lyrics “But if they ever flip sides like Anakin/ You’ll sell everything including the mannequin” refers to George Lucas’ Star Wars movies, where Anakin Skywalker turns to the dark side. This line is a reminder to Kanye’s fans about staying true to oneself and not giving up the search for success. The mention of the mannequin symbolizes how far people are willing to go for riches, even if it means losing touch with oneself.
The Song’s Reception
“Through the Wire” was an instant hit, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard 100. This success can be attributed to the song’s powerful message and the unique approach Kanye took to deliver it. The fact that he rapped the entire song with his jaw firmly wired shut shows the power of will and the ability to overcome limitations.
Over the years, “Through The Wire” has remained relevant and continues to inspire people facing tough times. The song has managed to inspire many individuals to keep pushing, regardless of the challenges that come their way. It’s a powerful reminder of the human spirit’s resilience and the importance of never giving up, no matter how difficult things may seem.
In Conclusion
“Through The Wire” by Kanye West serves not only as an excellent piece of music but also as a testament to the power of strength, resilience, and determination. Kanye West’s experience of having his jaw wired shut after a near-fatal car accident did not deter him from pursuing his passion. He used his adversity as an opportunity to prove to himself and the world that anything is possible with the right mindset.
The song’s powerful message resonates with many people, serving as a reminder that with the right attitude, anything is possible. “Through The Wire” continues to inspire individuals to stay true to themselves, pursue their passions, and overcome adversity with grace. It’s a timeless classic that shows the true artistry of Kanye West’s creative genius.
