Spliff
Rihanna
Escaping Reality: The Healing Power of a Spliff
Rihanna's song "Spliff" delves into the artist's relationship with marijuana, portraying it as a means of coping with life's challenges and maintaining mental clarity. The repetitive chorus, "One spliff a day keep da evil away," emphasizes the idea that smoking a spliff (a marijuana cigarette) serves as a daily ritual to ward off negativity and stress. This mantra-like repetition underscores the importance of this practice in her life, suggesting that it is a crucial element in her mental and emotional well-being.
The lyrics paint vivid imagery of Rihanna's lifestyle, where smoking is a constant presence, whether in her house, car, or even at prestigious events like the Grammys. The references to high-quality marijuana from the West Coast and the act of "blowing zeroes up to the ozone" highlight the luxurious and almost celebratory nature of her smoking habits. This portrayal contrasts with the more common stigmatization of marijuana use, presenting it instead as a sophisticated and integral part of her life.
Moreover, the song touches on the broader social and legal implications of marijuana use. Lines like "I might catch a charge if the copper search me" and "Who the fuck these narcos at my door" reflect the ongoing tension between personal freedom and law enforcement. Despite these risks, Rihanna's defiant tone and determination to continue her practice underscore a sense of rebellion and self-empowerment. The song ultimately portrays marijuana as a tool for personal liberation, a way to "blow the pain away" and transform troubles into ashes, offering a glimpse into the artist's coping mechanisms and the cultural significance of marijuana in her life.