Good Morning
Kanye West
A New Day Dawns: The Aspirational Message in Kanye West's 'Good Morning'
Kanye West's 'Good Morning' from his 2007 album 'Graduation' serves as an anthem of self-empowerment and a critique of the education system. The song opens with a repetitive greeting, 'Good morning,' which can be interpreted as a call to wake up not just physically, but also mentally and socially. The lyrics 'Wake up, Mr. West' could be seen as Kanye talking to himself, urging a personal awakening and a shedding of complacency.
The song continues with references to academic failure juxtaposed with success outside the traditional educational framework. The line 'I guess this is my dissertation' suggests that the song itself is a form of thesis, presenting Kanye's life experiences as a valid form of knowledge. The mention of 'a fly Malcolm X' and 'Buy any jeans necessary' plays on Malcolm X's famous phrase 'By any means necessary,' indicating a willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed, even if it means breaking away from conventional paths. The 'Delorean' line alludes to the movie 'Back to the Future,' symbolizing a journey through time and the ability to change one's destiny.
The repeated 'Good morning' chorus, especially towards the end, can be seen as a rallying cry for those who hustle and strive for a better life. It's a recognition of the struggle and a celebration of the perseverance required to 'graduate' from the hardships of street life. The song encapsulates the idea that education and success come in many forms, and that true learning often happens outside the classroom.