In exploring “Timeless” by The Weeknd and Playboi Carti, we delve into a lyrical landscape that captures the essence of fame, love, and personal struggle. This interpretation may or may not align with the artists’ intentions, but it invites listeners to connect with the deeper meanings behind the words. As we journey through the verses, we’ll uncover the vivid imagery and emotional weight carried in each line. The lyrics tell a story of authenticity amidst chaos, revealing the complexities of relationships in a world where time feels both fleeting and infinite.
Intro: Setting the Tone
The intro opens with a simple “XO,” immediately immersing us in The Weeknd’s world. The “XO” symbolizes a signature connection to his fans and his brand. It evokes intimacy and a sense of belonging. The sounds, “Ooh, yeah,” create an atmospheric vibe, setting the mood for what follows. This introduction isn’t just a catchy hook; it’s an invitation into a lifestyle filled with confidence and charisma.
Verse 1: Confidence and Legacy
Playboi Carti kicks off the verse with “Ever since I was a jit, knew I was the shit.” Here, the word “jit” refers to a young person. It speaks to a long-standing belief in one’s worth. This line is powerful; it asserts self-identity from a young age. There’s a sense of pride, suggesting that confidence was innate.
As he continues, “Shorty keep wanna come ’round, she wanna get hit,” the lyrics convey a casual yet bold attitude toward relationships. There’s no pretense here; he embraces the attention he gets. This line paints a picture of allure and attraction, where short-lived encounters are the norm.
The Illusion of Importance
Then comes “She think she the main because I keep her by my side.” This line reveals the complexity of relationships in his life. The woman believes she holds a significant place in his world, but it hints at the transient nature of such connections. It’s a commentary on the illusions people create in their minds about their importance.
When he states, “Double-O, bust down the watch, she know that I’m timeless,” there’s a double meaning. On one hand, “timeless” refers to luxury and status, highlighting wealth through material possessions like a watch. On the other, it suggests that his impact transcends time. This clever wordplay establishes him as someone who remains relevant regardless of trends.
Materialism and Identity
Next, “I put my son in some Rick” introduces an element of pride in providing for his family. He references designer clothing, indicating a lifestyle where wealth can afford luxury for loved ones. The mention of “gun off the hip” follows, emphasizing a readiness to defend oneself. It shows that while he enjoys the high life, he’s also aware of the dangers that accompany it.
As he continues with “Pockets hold twenty-two clips,” we delve deeper into the lifestyle that accompanies his fame. Money and weapons symbolize power and protection, intertwining with the themes of violence and success. This juxtaposition reveals the darker side of his glamorous life.
Heartbreak and Fashion
The line “I break her heart, Comme Garçon” is striking. It suggests emotional turmoil within relationships. The reference to a fashion label juxtaposes heartbreak with high style, demonstrating how personal pain can be intertwined with one’s identity. He then says, “Put on a shirt, get put on a blimp,” using imagery of elevation and recognition. It symbolizes how fame can elevate someone in the public eye, even while experiencing personal struggles.
The next lines, “Bitch like a stain, get ready to lick,” may sound playful but carry an undertone of objectification. It reflects the casual nature of encounters, emphasizing a detachment from emotional connections. The mood shifts again as he states, “I had to tell her that ever since I was a jit, knew I was the shit.” It’s a powerful reaffirmation of self-worth, looping back to the beginning of the verse.
Material Success and Reflection
The lyric “House like a bank, deposit this bitch, ‘posit that check” speaks volumes. Here, he contrasts emotional investments with financial ones. The metaphor of a house as a bank indicates substantial wealth. It’s not just about material success; it’s also about stability and security.
As he mentions, “Smile on my face, ain’t playing shit,” we see a glimpse of vulnerability masked by confidence. This line suggests that behind the façade of success, there may be deeper struggles. The next line, “Ice on my neck, double-O wrist,” returns to the theme of materialism, reinforcing that wealth and status are ever-present elements in his identity.
Substance Use and Inner Struggles
When Playboi Carti claims, “Just poured a four in a soda, it pop,” he’s alluding to substance use. This moment highlights the escapism often found in partying and drug culture. The phrase “them drugs finna hit, I’m feelin’ ill” reveals the consequences of such choices. It hints at the duality of pleasure and pain, a common theme in The Weeknd’s music.
“I’m wrestlin’ all of my demons, I feel like The Rock” combines imagery of internal conflict with a pop culture reference. The Rock symbolizes strength, yet here, he reveals that strength is needed to confront personal battles. This line serves as a candid admission that fame does not erase struggles; it can amplify them.
Chorus: A Cycle of Authenticity
The chorus, “Ever since I was a kid, I been legit,” echoes the confidence seen in the verse. It emphasizes authenticity and the journey of self-acceptance. This repetition solidifies his identity, reinforcing that legitimacy isn’t just a fleeting phase.
The line “If I was you, I would cut up my wrist” is a stark and jarring directive. It suggests a deep emotional turmoil and perhaps a warning against envy or unhealthy comparisons. It forces listeners to confront the seriousness of mental health issues.
The Tattoo and Commitment
Next, “XO tatted all over her body, yeah,” speaks to a commitment to The Weeknd’s brand and lifestyle. The tattoo symbolizes loyalty and connection, yet it also points to the fleeting nature of relationships in the music industry.
When he says, “She just wanna roll and I don’t mind it,” it suggests a casual approach to love. There’s an acceptance of transitory relationships, but it also hints at a deeper longing for connection. This line encapsulates a blend of desire and detachment.
The concluding line of the chorus, “It don’t matter what they say, I’m timeless,” encapsulates the entire essence of the song. It serves as an affirmation of self-worth against external judgment. In a world that often tries to box individuals into categories, this line stands as a proclamation of individuality and perseverance.
A Homecoming Filled with Fire
Verse 2 kicks off with “Oh, city on fire when I’m comin’ home.” This line ignites a vivid image of a bustling city filled with energy. It symbolizes the chaos and excitement that surrounds The Weeknd as he returns to familiar territory. There’s a sense of grandeur here, suggesting that his presence ignites a spark wherever he goes.
Next, “Fill up the sky, I fill up the Dome” emphasizes his impact. The “Dome” could refer to a venue, representing how his music transcends mere performance—it fills the air with anticipation and exhilaration. He is aware of the weight of his presence, filling spaces with sound and emotion.
Legacy and Pain
“They’ll play it one day, it’s a hell of a show,” reflects his belief in the enduring quality of his work. He knows that his art will resonate long after he’s gone. However, he also acknowledges the pain that comes with creating something groundbreaking: “But it’s gonna hurt ’cause we did it first.” This line carries a sense of sacrifice, recognizing that pioneering art often involves personal struggles and emotional costs.
The phrase “Feel like Skateboard P, BBC boys on the creep” draws a connection to the iconic Pharrell Williams. This reference infuses the verse with a sense of nostalgia, celebrating the influence of those who came before while hinting at the camaraderie among modern creatives. The “BBC boys” speaks to a sense of belonging within a collective that thrives on innovation and boundary-pushing.
Reflections on Love and Desire
As he continues, “She hippie-flippin’ a bean, she wanna fuck with the team,” the imagery is vivid and somewhat playful. The reference to “hippie-flippin'” suggests a carefree lifestyle, tied to the allure of substances and experiences. It indicates a desire for connection within a larger group, emphasizing a collective identity that often accompanies fame.
“She fell in love with the cream, she fell in love with the scene” reveals the complexities of attraction in his world. It suggests that some relationships are based on status and materialism rather than genuine connection. The “cream” symbolizes money and luxury, while “the scene” reflects the lifestyle that comes with it. This duality can complicate feelings, as love may intertwine with ambition and superficiality.
Heartbreak and Healing
Next, “Ooh, yeah, her man quiet, not a peep” introduces another layer to the narrative. It hints at a silent heartbreak, showcasing how relationships can crumble without confrontation. This unspoken pain resonates deeply, reminding listeners of the emotional weight often hidden beneath the surface.
“Broke his heart, PTSD,” follows with a stark acknowledgment of trauma. This line brings a darker undertone to the verse, revealing that heartbreak can leave lasting scars. The mention of PTSD connects the emotional fallout to broader mental health issues, emphasizing that vulnerability exists even in the glamorous world of fame.
Letting Go and Finding Peace
“Hold his chest, let it breathe” shifts the tone toward healing. It suggests a need for space and time to process pain. This line encourages self-care, an important message amidst the chaos of relationships and fame. The repetition of “let it breathe” emphasizes patience and understanding.
“Niggas scheme, and I got a priest, he got a cross” introduces a notion of protection against deceit. It hints at the need for guidance and support in a world where trust can be easily shattered. The imagery of the priest reinforces the idea of seeking solace in faith and spirituality amid turmoil.
Confronting Loss
The line “Get out of line, send him to God” offers a darker reflection on dealing with betrayal. It signifies a willingness to confront those who threaten his peace, alluding to a darker side of the lifestyle he leads. It’s a line steeped in both finality and empowerment.
“I shed a tear, pray for a loss” adds a poignant touch to the narrative. Here, he acknowledges the emotional toll of loss and the need for grief. This admission underscores that even amid the glitz and glamour, there are moments of sorrow and reflection.
Returning to the Chorus
As the chorus reappears, “Ever since I was a kid, I been legit,” it reinforces the theme of authenticity. This repetition serves as a reminder that no matter the external chaos, his foundation remains solid. The focus on legitimacy and integrity in a world rife with superficiality is powerful.
The line “If I was you, I would cut up my wrist” returns with its stark intensity. It reminds listeners of the gravity of mental health struggles. This line is not just a bold proclamation; it’s a call for awareness of the emotional pain many face.
The Tattoo and Connection
“XO tatted all over her body, yeah,” reaffirms the themes of loyalty and connection. Tattoos symbolize permanence, suggesting that the bond formed in this lifestyle is meaningful, albeit complex. The reminder of the “XO” brand connects back to the warmth and intimacy that can sometimes contrast with the harsh realities of fame.
In the final lines, “She just wanna roll and I don’t mind it,” there’s an acceptance of the transient nature of relationships. It reflects an understanding of the dynamics in his life, where connections may not always last but still hold value.
The Outro: Reiterating Timelessness
As the outro echoes “Timeless,” the repetition drives home the central theme of the song. It’s a celebration of enduring legacy, regardless of the chaos that surrounds it. The assertion that “we timeless” reinforces the idea that true impact transcends the fleeting nature of fame and success.
The playful “Oh (Blatt), Oh (Yuh, lit)” at the end maintains the casual vibe, drawing listeners back into the immersive experience of the song. This closing leaves us with a sense of satisfaction, inviting reflection on the journey we’ve taken through the lyrics.