Forbidden Fruit (feat. Kendrick Lamar)

J. Cole's 'Forbidden Fruit,' featuring Kendrick Lamar, delves into themes of temptation, ambition, and the transient nature of life. The song opens with a metaphorical reference to the biblical story of Adam and Eve, where the 'forbidden fruit' symbolizes the allure of temptation and the consequences that follow. The imagery of 'apple juice falling from her lips' and 'taking a little sip' suggests indulging in desires that are both enticing and potentially perilous. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of personal and societal struggles.

In the first verse, J. Cole navigates through a landscape fraught with danger and moral ambiguity. He references the 'valley of the shadow of death,' a nod to Psalm 23, highlighting the perilous environment he comes from. The mention of 'niggas hold tec's like they mad at the ref' paints a picture of a community where violence is a constant threat. Cole juxtaposes this with his own resilience, symbolized by the cross on his chest, and his determination to rise above these challenges. The verse also critiques societal hypocrisy, pointing out the contradictions in moral standards, such as a minister receiving 'brains' from the same woman who sells her body.

The bridge, repeated twice by Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole, underscores the fleeting nature of material and emotional attachments. 'Bitches come and go, money come and go, love come and go' serves as a reminder that nothing lasts forever, reinforcing the song's theme of impermanence. In the second verse, J. Cole reflects on his personal journey, from his humble beginnings to his rise in the music industry. He acknowledges the sacrifices and the relentless grind required to achieve success, while also addressing the superficiality and fickleness of fame. The verse is filled with clever wordplay and cultural references, such as 'maroon 5, no Adam Levine,' showcasing Cole's lyrical prowess.

The outro brings the song full circle, with J. Cole asserting his place in the rap hierarchy and paying homage to influential figures like Phife Dawg, Q-Tip, Ali, and Jarobi from A Tribe Called Quest. The closing lines, 'Started with a dollar and a dream, and you know that,' encapsulate his journey and the relentless pursuit of his dreams. The song ends on a note of self-assuredness and defiance, with Cole embracing his role as a leader in the rap game.