sink or swim

Chase Shakur's 'Sink or Swim' delves into the complexities of balancing personal ambition with romantic relationships. The song opens with the artist expressing frustration over missed calls and the pressure of maintaining connections while being deeply engrossed in his career. The line 'I've been focused on my bands' highlights his dedication to financial success, which comes at the cost of emotional availability. This sets the stage for a recurring theme of conflict between love and ambition.

The metaphor of a frozen wrist and heart symbolizes emotional detachment, a common consequence of prioritizing work over personal relationships. Shakur's lyrics, 'I wrote a message, I ain't press send,' further illustrate his internal struggle and hesitation in communicating his feelings. The chorus, with its poignant question, 'Will we sink or will we swim?' encapsulates the uncertainty and tension in his relationship. The imagery of blowing smoke out the window signifies a fleeting escape from reality, blending with the air just as his thoughts and emotions mix and blend.

Throughout the song, Shakur grapples with the idea of whether his relationship can survive the pressures of his new lifestyle. The repeated phrase 'I been gone' underscores his physical and emotional absence, while 'This new life hit different' acknowledges the transformative impact of his success. The song's conclusion leaves listeners pondering the fate of the relationship, as Shakur seeks reassurance and clarity from his partner. 'Sink or Swim' is a raw and introspective exploration of the sacrifices and challenges that come with chasing dreams while trying to maintain love and connection.