I Have Not Begun

Linkin Park's song "I Have Not Begun" is a powerful declaration of resilience and unyielding determination. The lyrics are a direct address to critics and naysayers, emphasizing the artist's confidence and relentless drive. The opening lines set the tone, apologizing for the wait and immediately calling out those who doubt or fake their support. The metaphor of cooking a plate for the haters to stick their faces in suggests that the artist is serving up something undeniable and inescapable, a taste of their undeniable talent and hard work.

The song is rich with metaphors and cultural references, from comparing the delivery of their music to broadcasting on NBC and delivering reality more potent than MTV, to the vivid imagery of chopping bodies in threes and stuttering in fear. These lines highlight the artist's prowess and the impact of their words, likening their lyrical skill to a weapon that can dismantle opponents. The repeated assertion that the artist has not yet begun underscores a sense of untapped potential and a warning that their best is yet to come.

Throughout the song, there's a recurring theme of overcoming obstacles and proving doubters wrong. The artist's confidence is palpable, as they describe their journey and the hard work that has gone into their craft. The references to a razor-blade tongue and the ability to provoke a whole gang with a single line illustrate the sharpness and potency of their lyrics. The song culminates in a powerful message of perseverance, with the artist declaring that despite any opposition, they are far from finished and have much more to achieve. This anthem of resilience serves as a reminder of the strength and determination required to succeed in the face of adversity.