PAPERWORK (feat. Ty Dolla $ign & Quavo)
Kanye West
The Pursuit of Pleasure and Wealth in 'PAPERWORK'
Kanye West's 'PAPERWORK,' featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Quavo, delves into themes of wealth, hedonism, and the high life. The song's chorus, 'Let me get my paper right / Then come out, let's play tonight,' sets the tone for a narrative that prioritizes financial success as a precursor to enjoyment and leisure. The repeated phrase 'get my paper right' suggests a focus on securing financial stability or wealth before indulging in the pleasures of the night.
The verses expand on this theme, with references to 'Benjamin Frank,' a colloquial term for money, and the idea of being 'back on that for the paper,' which implies a relentless pursuit of wealth. The lyrics also touch on the darker side of fame and fortune, with lines like 'She took the pipe, now she famous,' hinting at the potential moral compromises and objectification that can accompany the quest for notoriety. The song's atmosphere is one of exclusivity and luxury, with mentions of 'private location' vacations and expensive purses, reinforcing the connection between money and lifestyle.
The inclusion of Spanish expletives and the casual reference to 'marrying the mob' add a layer of edginess and danger to the narrative, suggesting that the pursuit of wealth and pleasure may come with risks. The song's portrayal of relationships is transactional, with lines like 'Paying you, I'm late for work' and 'It's a pay per view don't play with her,' indicating that interactions are often commodified in the world the song describes. Overall, 'PAPERWORK' paints a picture of a life where financial success is the key to unlocking a world of hedonistic pleasure, but not without potential pitfalls.