closing time : saint pablo by kanye west
The second part of a five part series deep diving into the songs that finish your favorite album.
The intricacies surrounding "The Life of Pablo” as an album make it a compelling subject for discussion. From the project's eventful release, commencing at the Yeezy Season 3 event held at Madison Square Garden, to its journey from exclusivity to availability on the emerging streaming platform "Tidal," the album rollout unveils numerous layers essential for comprehending the creative chaos of Kanye West. But with “Saint Pablo,” the song, a different type of layers are unveiled. It's less about creative chaos, and solely about the trials, tribulations, and rejuvenation of a man on a mission.
“Saint Pablo”, a closing track that was added to the album exactly 4 months after the album's original release, capped off a flurry of updates, remixing and mastering, and just overall project reworking. Saint Pablo was the much-needed recap on a very chaotic era of being a Kanye fan and supporter. On the track through its evocative lyricism, captivating musical arrangement, and profound themes, "Saint Pablo" beckons listeners to a voyage of self-exploration, renewal, and spiritual enlightenment alongside West himself.
Thematically: Embedded within the fabric of "Saint Pablo" are themes of redemption, resilience, and the pursuit of self-actualization. Kanye West bares his soul with unabashed honesty, confronting his demons and embracing his imperfections with grace and humility. The song serves as a testament to the transformative power of music, offering solace and inspiration to those navigating the tumultuous waters of life. Through its introspective lens, "Saint Pablo" reminds us that even in our darkest moments, there exists the potential for growth, redemption, and rebirth.
Lyrically: At its core, "Saint Pablo" serves as a lyrical journey through the labyrinth of Kanye West's psyche. Each verse is a full-fledged tapestry bearing the phrase “the journey starts within”, woven with threads of vulnerability, , and even some foreshadowing. Lines like "real family stick together and see through the mirage" resonate with haunting sincerity, offering a glimpse into the soul of an artist grappling with fame, fortune, and the trappings of stardom. West's own introspective exploration of spirituality and personal growth adds a layer of depth to the song, inviting listeners to ponder the existential questions that lie at the heart of the human experience. Kanye's poignant lyricism transcends words, inviting listeners to embark on a personal transformative odyssey of awakening.
Musically: Complementing the lyrical prowess of "Saint Pablo" is its masterful musical composition. The track unfolds with a minimalist elegance, characterized by ethereal synths, subdued percussion, and atmospheric textures. Kanye's voice, laden with emotion and vulnerability, shown by his multiple voice cracks and weight in his tone, soars above the understated instrumentation, creating a captivating sonic landscape. Sampha’s performance on the chorus was nothing short of amazing as he perfectly matched the urgency and energy of the track, but more importantly, Kanye’s pain, almost like he bore the same burdens as Ye. As the song progresses, layers of sound are gradually unveiled, building to a climactic crescendo that leaves an indelible imprint on the listener's soul. It's a testament to Kanye West's unparalleled skill as a sonic architect, crafting an auditory experience that transcends the confines of traditional hip-hop.
Many listeners interpret "Saint Pablo" as a message of hope or redemption, particularly in the face of adversity or personal challenges. As an album closer, it can leave listeners with a sense of optimism or encouragement, even if the album as a whole has explored darker themes. It serves as that pat on the back, that hug, that “it's all going to be okay” at the tail end of such a polarizing project like “The Life of Pablo”. It's a testament to the power of music to inspire, to uplift, and to resonate with the deepest parts of the soul. Truly, "Saint Pablo" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of not only one of music's most innovative and influential eras but also one of music’s most innovative and influential artists.
