Government Cheese

Vince Staples' song 'Government Cheese' delves into the complexities of life in the slums, the struggles of maintaining hope, and the importance of resilience. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the harsh realities faced by those living in impoverished conditions. Staples begins by reflecting on the cost of living in the slums and the constant feeling of falling short despite giving his all. The metaphor of life as a 'blood sport' underscores the brutal and competitive nature of survival in such environments. The artist's struggle with faith and the feeling of being unprotected despite praying highlights the internal conflict many face when dealing with adversity.

The chorus, 'Don't forget to smile, don't forget to smile,' serves as a poignant reminder to maintain a sense of hope and positivity even when the world feels heavy. Staples emphasizes the importance of not losing one's inner child, a symbol of innocence and joy, amidst the trials of life. This message is particularly powerful as it encourages listeners to find light in the darkest of times and to hold onto their true selves despite external pressures.

In the second verse, Staples shares a personal story about a friend incarcerated in Pelican Bay, illustrating the impact of systemic issues and the cycle of violence that plagues many communities. The conversation with his friend reveals the emotional burden of success and the guilt of being the 'money tree' while others suffer. The mention of his older brother's death adds another layer of sorrow and humility, reminding us of the fragility of life. Despite these hardships, Staples' call to 'pick up when I call' and the repeated refrain to smile underscores a message of resilience and the importance of staying connected to one's roots and community.