WORK OF ART Lyrics – Will Smith, Russ

WORK OF ART Lyrics Meaning

[Chorus (Jaden)]
In the chorus, the artists declare themselves as a “work of art,” highlighting their uniqueness and individuality. They’re seen as masterpieces, with their lives and achievements being scrutinized and appreciated like a painting. They acknowledge that even in death, their essence will be remembered as art, emphasizing their ongoing impact and significance.

[Verse 1 (Will Smith)]
In this verse, Will Smith explores the complexity of his identity. He describes himself as both the creator and the creation—“the paint, the brush, and the canvas.” He contrasts different aspects of himself, like being a saint versus a savage, or the sun and the rain, to show his multifaceted nature. He references various historical and religious figures to illustrate that he embodies both good and bad qualities. This verse emphasizes that he’s a blend of many roles and attributes, both revered and controversial.

[Chorus (Jaden & Russ)]
The chorus repeats the idea of being a “work of art,” with a focus on how their lives are seen and judged by others. They highlight how people might frame or critique their lives, like a painting in a gallery. They reaffirm that even with all the scrutiny and eventual recognition after death, their essence remains a significant piece of art. It underscores their enduring impact and how their lives are constantly evaluated.

[Verse 2 (Russ)]
Russ discusses feeling trapped and struggling to find inner peace while dealing with personal demons and public perception. He likens his journey to navigating challenging paths and facing his shadows. The verse reflects on how fame brings constant self-reflection and judgment. Russ acknowledges that ego and discomfort are part of his growth process. He encourages others to see his flaws as reflections of their own and to understand that judging him is like looking into a mirror of their own humanity.

[Bridge (Jaden & Will Smith)]
In the bridge, the artists emphasize their ongoing personal growth. They’re continually working on themselves, striving to improve and evolve with each breath they take, showing their commitment to self-development and self-awareness.

[Verse 3 (Will Smith)]
In this verse, Will Smith talks about the pressures and challenges of his life, comparing himself to a king who refuses to bow down unless he’s working hard. He acknowledges the burden of leadership and defies limits. Despite attempts to censor him, he remains resilient and brings his full self, including his personal experiences and values. The verse reflects his determination to lead and his dedication to personal and artistic integrity.

[Chorus (Jaden)]
The final chorus reaffirms their status as a “work of art,” emphasizing how their lives are constantly under scrutiny and evaluation. They stress that, even in the face of criticism or after death, their essence remains a profound and impactful piece of art. It reinforces their significance and the idea that their legacy continues to resonate as they live and breathe.