Immortal
J. Cole
The Eternal Struggle: J. Cole's 'Immortal'
J. Cole's song 'Immortal' delves deep into the harsh realities of life in impoverished neighborhoods, where crime and survival are often intertwined. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young man, barely seventeen, filled with hope but surrounded by despair. The opening lines highlight the stark contrast between dreams and reality, as the protagonist's aspirations clash with the grim circumstances of his environment. The imagery of serving a fiend with a pocket full of soap and hearing screams when a body hits the floor underscores the brutal and often violent nature of this existence.
The recurring refrain, 'Real niggas don't die,' serves as a powerful mantra, emphasizing resilience and the idea of immortality through legacy. This notion is further explored through the depiction of friends who have passed away, immortalized on shirts, and the constant struggle to survive in a world that seems designed to keep them down. The song also touches on the systemic issues that perpetuate this cycle, such as the lack of opportunities and the glorification of crime as a means to escape poverty. J. Cole's reference to 'crime pays like a part-time job' and the longing for a 'Carl Thom vibe' to numb the pain highlights the emotional toll of this lifestyle.
In the latter part of the song, J. Cole reflects on the existential dilemma of living a long, unfulfilled life versus dying young as a legend. This contemplation reveals the internal conflict faced by many who feel trapped by their circumstances. The line 'they only feel you after you gone' speaks to the struggle for recognition and the desire to leave a lasting impact. The song concludes with a poignant commentary on the societal pressures that limit the aspirations of young black men, encapsulated in the phrase 'sell dope, rap, or go to NBA.' Through 'Immortal,' J. Cole not only sheds light on the struggles of his community but also challenges listeners to confront the systemic issues that perpetuate these cycles of despair and resilience.