Habits (feat. White Gold)
Eminem
Eminem's Battle with Controversy and Society in 'Habits'
In 'Habits', Eminem explores his personal struggles with addiction and the persistent influence of his alter ego, Slim Shady. The song begins with an internal conversation, where Slim Shady, the embodiment of his destructive impulses, tries to force Eminem to give in to his metaphorical addiction. This internal battle is depicted in a raw and intense way, reflecting Eminem's constant struggle to maintain control over his life and actions.
The lyrics are rich in metaphors and cultural references, intending to critique the hypocrisy and superficiality of contemporary society. Eminem uses these references to highlight the duality of his personality and the difficulty of getting rid of harmful habits. He also addresses issues such as censorship, the culture of cancellation, and the Politically Correct movement, criticizing the way society deals with sensitive issues and the hypocrisy present in many public debates.
This hypocrisy is reinforced in the excerpt from the song, which features the voice of Mister Reality. Taken from one of the episodes of 'South Park', a cartoon series known for its satirical and often controversial humor, which addresses current and political issues in an irreverent way, Mister Reality confronts several celebrities for praising themselves for helping each other, as if this were a great achievement, without actually helping anyone.
The song also reflects on Eminem's evolution as an artist and individual. He recalls his past in Detroit and how his career has been shaped by his personal experiences and struggles. The presence of White Gold on vocals adds an emotional layer to the song, reinforcing the idea that, despite his achievements, Eminem still faces significant internal battles. 'Habits' is a powerful representation of Eminem's ongoing struggle against his personal demons and Slim Shady's persistent influence in his life.