PTSD

Pop Smoke's song "PTSD" delves into the harrowing experiences and psychological aftermath of living a life surrounded by violence and crime. The title itself, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), sets the tone for the song, indicating that the artist is grappling with the mental scars left by his tumultuous environment. The lyrics repeatedly mention the need to get high as a coping mechanism to deal with the onset of PTSD, highlighting the struggle to find solace amidst chaos.

The song paints a vivid picture of street life, where loyalty and betrayal are constant themes. Pop Smoke describes violent encounters, such as his friend Trey shooting someone from his car, which forces him to lay low. The lyrics also touch on the duality of his relationships, expressing love for his significant other while acknowledging the presence of other women in his life. This duality extends to his interactions with others, where he warns against false camaraderie, emphasizing that not everyone who tries to be friendly is truly a friend.

Cultural references are woven throughout the song, from mentions of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. to the imagery of gang life and street justice. Pop Smoke's lyrics reflect a world where violence is a means of survival and retribution is swift and brutal. The song also touches on the emotional numbness that comes with such a lifestyle, as seen in the line where he mentions not shedding a tear for a fallen friend but instead smoking a spliff in their memory. This detachment underscores the deep psychological impact of his experiences, further emphasizing the theme of PTSD.

"PTSD" is a raw and unfiltered look into the life of Pop Smoke, offering listeners a glimpse into the mental and emotional toll of living in a violent environment. The song's repetitive chorus reinforces the cyclical nature of his struggles, making it a poignant commentary on the lasting effects of trauma.