The song 'cellar' by lieu is a raw and visceral track that delves into the artist's struggles with violent environments, loyalty to friends despite their faults, and an overall sense of discontentment with life. Through intense and vivid imagery, lieu discusses engaging in illicit activities, the importance of his close relationships, and a desire to escape his current circumstances while feeling trapped by them.
The track opens with a defiant attitude, as lieu talks about conflicts with others and living a life that he doesn't want. There's a palpable sense of frustration and aggression as lieu lashes out against perceived foes and the situations he finds himself in. The mention of 'crack in the stall' and the imagery of running from the police paint a picture of a chaotic and lawless environment that the artist is all too familiar with.
In the chorus, lieu speaks about being 'in the cut' with someone named Delta and avoiding attention, which could symbolize a desire to remain hidden and protected from the outside world. The mention of buying crack and keeping a 'Glick in the cellar' suggests a continued involvement with violent and criminal activities, further emphasizing the conflict between lieu's actions and his true desires.
In verse two, there is a glimpse into lieu's introspection and struggling relationships. Despite feeling disconnected from others, there's a declaration of loyalty to his friends as he stands by them unequivocally. The references to loving his computer and not wanting to shut it off might symbolize an escape through technology or a digital life that feels safer and more controlled than his reality.
The reiteration of the chorus highlights a cycle lieu feels caught in—engaging in dangerous activities while simultaneously wanting to quit. The final declaration, where he speaks about putting a knife in someone's liver, is both a metaphor and a raw expression of the willingness to fight viciously for survival in a harsh world.
"In the cut, I'm with Delta (Okay)"
The term 'in the cut' often means in a safe or secluded space, while 'Delta' may refer to a friend or ally. This line signifies a feeling of camaraderie and safety in an otherwise dangerous environment.
"Keep that Glick in the cellar"
'Glick' is a slang term for a gun, and this line shows a preparedness for violence or self-defense, as well as the hidden nature of these protective measures.
"My windows tinted black like my last name Keller"
This may be a reference to Helen Keller, drawing a parallel between the darkened windows and a sense of isolation or inability to communicate with the outside world, just as Keller experienced due to her disabilities.
"I'ma put a fuckin' knife in his liver"
This visceral imagery is quite literal, expressing a readiness to commit violent acts potentially as a means of self-protection or to make a statement about the severity of his situation.