Released: 2019 • Features: Swae Lee
“Sunflower,” by Post Malone and Swae Lee, is a soulful exploration of a tumultuous, hard-to-define relationship. The song, from the soundtrack to “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” depicts a romantic dynamic that cycles through conflict, separation, fear of being alone, and yet, a powerful draw to each other that’s as radiant as a sunflower.
Post Malone and Swae Lee set the tone right from the jump with the line “Needless to say, I keep her in check.” Here, ‘check’ is hip-hop parlance meaning keeping the relationship in balance or keeping the significant other’s behavior in line. The line also expresses a sense of control in the relationship. However, it’s a tale of two halves – she’s characterized as a ‘bad-bad,’ a double-edged compliment in hip-hop that signifies she’s trouble, yet irresistibly attractive.
Lines like “Crash at my place, baby, you’re a wreck” and “Thinkin’ in a bad way, losin’ your grip” delve deeper into the chaotic nature of the relationship. ‘Crash’ has a dual meaning here – it’s slang for staying over at someone’s place, but it also alludes to the emotional breakdowns they’re both experiencing. The word ‘wreck,’ often used to describe a messy situation, underlines this turmoil.
The chorus is a metaphorical masterpiece, with the sunflower symbolizing something beautiful that blooms from this rocky relationship. “Unless I stuck by ya, You’re the sunflower” signifies the commitment needed to foster this beauty. Despite being ‘left in the dust,’ the sunflower is resilient and perseveres, much like their partnership. “Your love would be too much” suggests a love that’s overwhelming and intense, while “And I’m not tryna lose” reveals a refusal to give up, even amidst the trials.
Throughout the song, phrases like “Every time I’m leavin’ on you,” “Fightin’ for my trust,” and “But it’s out of my control” encapsulate their push-and-pull dynamic. Fear of abandonment and trust issues are candidly addressed, set against the backdrop of a relationship that’s both passionate and painful.
In many ways, “Sunflower” is an ode to turbulent love, full of hip-hop lingo that amplifies its profound themes. It embraces the messiness of relationships, persisting through hardships, and the beauty that can blossom from adversity – just like a sunflower.
