Glock in My Lap by 21 Savage & Metro Boomin captures the essence of street life and the mindset of remaining ever-vigilant. The song delves into themes of gang violence, the necessity of self-protection, and the harsh realities of 21 Savage's life experiences. The presence of a Glock on his lap symbolizes the constant readiness for conflict, while the lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life marked by danger, wealth, and a disdain for the inauthenticity perceived in others, especially other rappers.
The song begins with an aggressive tone, setting a scene of confrontation and dominance. As 21 Savage's voice breaks into the verse, the emotional journey dives into the colder, darker aspects of street life where violence and self-preservation are common themes. This aligns with the cold and lethal references, like leaving an 'opponent cold like December' or equating his weapon to a business tool.
The chorus encapsulates the constant tension and vigilance that comes with 21 Savage's lifestyle. He emphasizes his skepticism of the rap industry and his peers, indicating a lonely journey where he solely relies on himself and his 'strap'. The analogy of praying to his weapon instead of a deity shows an almost spiritual reliance on his firearm for safety and direction.
As the emotional narrative progresses, there is a boastful pride expressed in overcoming the struggles of his past, like making significant money and elevating his status through less than legal means. However, this pride is tinged with the knowledge that danger is never far away, keeping the tone layered with both success and an undercurrent of potential peril.
Towards the end of the song, 21 Savage reflects on how his opposition has been decisively dealt with, using wordplay to liken them to insignificant dust. This gives a sense of finality and control over his environment, but it’s also a stark reminder of the brutal reality he's narrating. The song concludes on a note of cold confidence, underscoring 21 Savage's resilience and the hardened shell he's developed to thrive in his world.
"Chuck E. Cheese, rat, we get rodents whacked"
References the popular family entertainment center and chain of restaurants, known for its mouse mascot. In the context of the song, 'rat' is a slang term for an informant, and 21 Savage warns that traitors are dealt with harshly.
"I pray to my strap"
A 'strap' is slang for a firearm, and here, 21 Savage is conveying that instead of seeking divine intervention, he places his faith in his weapon for protection and justice.
"He think he the battery, we call him Elon Musk"
A play on words, referencing both the term 'battery' (as in a person who energizes or instigates situations) and Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla, known for its electric car batteries), suggesting the person is fueling the wrong kind of energy.
"Open your mouth when I bust"
Implies the act of shooting a gun, but written ambiguously to potentially carry a sexual connotation as well. It showcases 21 Savage's bold and brazen attitude.