Watch (feat. Lil Uzi Vert & Kanye West)
Travis Scott
Materialism and Inner Struggles in 'Watch'
Travis Scott's song 'Watch,' featuring Lil Uzi Vert and Kanye West, delves into themes of materialism, fame, and the internal conflicts that come with success. The song opens with a reference to Astroworld, a now-defunct amusement park in Houston, which serves as a nostalgic nod to Scott's roots. This sets the stage for a journey through the highs and lows of a lavish lifestyle, marked by expensive watches, designer clothes, and endless money.
Lil Uzi Vert's verse emphasizes the superficial aspects of wealth, comparing different types of Rolex watches and flaunting his financial success. The lyrics 'Look at your Rollie, uh, look at my Rollie, uh / That's a small face, uh, this a big face, uh' highlight the competitive nature of materialism. Despite the abundance of money, there's a sense of boredom and emptiness, as indicated by the line 'Gettin' bored with this money, count it all day.' This suggests that material wealth alone is not fulfilling.
Travis Scott's verse continues this theme but adds a layer of mistrust and paranoia. He mentions not being able to trust people and the constant pressure to maintain his status. The line 'Yeah, they really want my soul, that can never go' reflects the fear of losing oneself amidst the fame and fortune. Kanye West's verse takes a more introspective turn, addressing issues like opioid addiction and the mental toll of fame. His lines 'Opioid addiction, pharmacy's the real trap / Sometimes I feel trapped, Jordan with no Phil Jack' reveal the darker side of success, where even immense wealth can't shield one from personal demons.
The song's recurring motif of comparing watches serves as a metaphor for the superficiality of material success. While the artists boast about their wealth, there's an underlying sense of dissatisfaction and a yearning for something more meaningful. This duality captures the complex relationship between materialism and inner peace, making 'Watch' a compelling exploration of modern fame and its discontents.