Respiration

Black Star's 'Respiration' is a vivid portrayal of urban life, particularly in New York City. The song opens with a conversation about graffiti, setting the stage for a narrative that explores the complexities and contradictions of city living. The phrase 'crime in the city' painted on a train car serves as a metaphor for the pervasive sense of danger and lawlessness that coexists with the city's vibrancy and creativity.

The lyrics, delivered by Talib Kweli and Mos Def, weave a tapestry of images that capture the essence of the metropolis. The city is described as a living, breathing entity, with its own rhythms and pulses. The line 'The new Moon rode high in the crown of the metropolis' evokes a sense of grandeur and mystery, while 'People was tusslin, arguin and bustlin' paints a picture of the constant hustle and bustle. The artists grapple with the harsh realities of urban life, from economic struggles to the blurred lines between right and wrong, encapsulated in the line 'can't tell between the cops and the robbers, they both partners, they all heartless.'

The chorus, 'So much on my mind that I can't recline, Blastin holes in the night till she bled sunshine,' speaks to the mental and emotional toll of city life. The act of 'blastin holes in the night' suggests a struggle to find light and hope amidst darkness and despair. The imagery of 'breathing in deep city breaths' and 'weed smoke retrace the skyline' further emphasizes the intimate connection between the individual and the urban environment. The city is both a source of inspiration and a battleground, where survival requires resilience and adaptability.

In the final verses, the song delves into personal reflections and broader social commentary. The artists mourn lost friends and grapple with the challenges of maintaining their identity and integrity in a world that often feels hostile and indifferent. The line 'It's a dog-eat-dog world, you gotta mush on' encapsulates the relentless pressure to keep moving forward, despite the obstacles. The song ends on a poignant note, with the repeated refrain 'I can feel the city breathing,' underscoring the enduring, almost symbiotic relationship between the city and its inhabitants.