Fever

J. Cole's song 'Fever' delves into the complexities of desire, the pull of the past, and the uncertainties of the future. The lyrics open with a voicemail-like message, suggesting a sense of distance and longing. The speaker is on the road, living a fast-paced life, but there's a person they can't stop thinking about. This sets the stage for a narrative about connection and the difficulty of maintaining it amidst life's chaos.

The chorus of 'Fever' uses the metaphor of fever to describe an intense attraction to someone. The comparison to 'blowin' on sativa' (a strain of cannabis) suggests that this person's effect is intoxicating and mind-altering, taking the speaker 'deeper' into their emotions. The fever here symbolizes a burning desire that fluctuates, much like the 'ups and downs' mentioned in the song. The line 'Now go throw the past away, we ain't guaranteed to see a better day' speaks to the urgency of living in the moment and the recognition that the future is not promised.

J. Cole's verses touch on his personal experiences and struggles. He references his hometown ('the 'ville'), the music industry, and the temptations he faces while on the road. Despite his success and the distractions that come with it, there's a sense of conflict as he grapples with his feelings for someone he's left behind. The repeated question 'Ooh, when can I see you?' echoes the theme of longing and the desire to reconnect, highlighting the emotional turmoil of being torn between two worlds.