Many Men (Wish Death)

50 Cent's 'Many Men (Wish Death)' is a raw and gritty narrative of survival, reflecting the artist's own experiences with violence and betrayal. The song, from his 2003 debut album 'Get Rich or Die Tryin',' delves into the harsh realities of street life and the constant threats that come with it. The lyrics are a testament to 50 Cent's resilience in the face of numerous attempts on his life, particularly the infamous incident where he was shot nine times and survived.

The chorus, 'Many men, many, many, many, many men, wish death 'pon me,' is a haunting refrain that underscores the perilous environment in which 50 Cent operates. He speaks of betrayal and the cold reality that even those close to him may wish him harm. The song's tone is one of defiance and determination, as he refuses to succumb to fear or to the will of his enemies. The line 'Lord, I don't cry no more, don't look to the sky no more, have mercy on me,' suggests a loss of innocence and a hardened perspective on life, where reliance on divine intervention is replaced by self-reliance and guardedness.

Cultural references, such as the mention of Malcolm X ('Malcolm by any means with my gun in my palm') and the film 'Goodfellas,' serve to position 50 Cent within a lineage of figures who fought against the odds. The song also touches on the criminal justice system's harsh treatment of black men, and the sense of injustice that pervades many of his experiences. 'Many Men (Wish Death)' is not just a personal account; it's a commentary on the broader struggles faced by those in similar circumstances, making it a powerful piece of social commentary as well as a personal narrative.