Barbarian

Juice WRLD's song 'Barbarian' delves into the chaotic and often dark aspects of his life, reflecting his struggles with substance abuse, fame, and personal demons. The repeated references to codeine and other drugs highlight his dependency on substances as a coping mechanism. Juice WRLD's lyrics, 'I need codeine, in love with the medicine,' underscore his reliance on drugs to numb his pain and escape reality. This theme of self-medication is a recurring motif in his music, reflecting the broader issue of substance abuse in the music industry and among young people.

The song also touches on Juice WRLD's experiences with abandonment and the impact it had on his life. Lines like 'I'm a victim of father abandonment' and 'As a bastard, I had to go get this shit' reveal the emotional scars left by his father's absence. This sense of abandonment fuels his drive for success and wealth, as he seeks to prove himself and overcome his past. The juxtaposition of his current riches with his humble beginnings, as seen in 'I remember eating Ramen and Lunchables / Now I throw Ruth Chris' away like it's Lunchables,' highlights his journey from poverty to fame.

Additionally, 'Barbarian' explores themes of violence and bravado, with Juice WRLD portraying himself as a fearless and dominant figure. References to handling 'the Rock' like Kobe Bryant and tearing things up like a vandal emphasize his aggressive and rebellious nature. This persona is further reinforced by his disdain for those he perceives as weak or fake, as seen in lines like 'Niggas is bitches, on that Tyler Perry shit.' The song paints a picture of a young man grappling with his inner turmoil while projecting an image of strength and invincibility to the outside world.