Never Be Peace

In "Never Be Peace," 2Pac delivers a powerful and unfiltered commentary on the harsh realities of life in the streets, particularly for young Black men. The song opens with 2Pac expressing a desire for peace but quickly dismisses it as an unrealistic dream. He paints a vivid picture of his struggles, from sleepless nights filled with misery to the violent measures he felt compelled to take in his quest for survival. The lyrics reflect a deep sense of disillusionment, as he recalls a time of unity in his youth that was shattered by the violence and chaos of adulthood. The recurring theme is the cyclical nature of violence and the seeming impossibility of escaping it.

Marvelouz's verse continues this narrative, emphasizing the constant state of fear and stress that pervades their lives. He speaks of lost dreams and the harsh reality that has replaced them, highlighting the generational impact of violence and poverty. The struggle to raise his daughter in such an environment is a poignant reminder of the personal toll this lifestyle takes. The verse is filled with a sense of hopelessness, as he acknowledges that peace is an unattainable goal, overshadowed by the daily trials and tribulations they face.

Storm's verse adds another layer to the song, delving into the psychological impact of living in such a hostile environment. She speaks of loneliness, deception, and the constant battle to find inner peace amidst external chaos. Her words reflect a deep-seated pain and a sense of being trapped in a life predetermined by circumstances beyond her control. The recurring refrain of "there'll never be peace" underscores the collective sentiment of the song, a grim acknowledgment that the dream of peace is overshadowed by the harsh realities of their world.

2Pac's closing lines drive home the message with a raw and unfiltered outburst against the notion of peace. He points to the systemic issues and the pervasive violence that make peace an impossible dream. The song ends on a note of defiance, with 2Pac and his collaborators rejecting the idea of peace until the systemic issues plaguing their communities are addressed. "Never Be Peace" is a stark, unflinching look at the struggles faced by those living in marginalized communities, a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve true peace and justice.