Released: 2022
“Poland” by Lil Yachty is essentially a swagger-laden opus that reflects on the traveling lifestyle of the artist, while simultaneously delving into his battles with personal demons. The song’s title, “Poland,” portrays Yachty’s global reach, serving as a metaphor for the immense influence of American hip-hop across the globe.
Starting with the repeated line “I took the Wock’ to Poland,” Lil Yachty immediately sets a vibe. Here, ‘Wock’ is a reference to Wockhardt, a brand of prescription strength cough syrup, often misused in the hip-hop community for recreational purposes, indicating his indulgence even when overseas.
The line “I been fiending (ah), like I’m Kenan / Ride around with a Kel-Tec,” Yachty uses clever wordplay. The phrase “fiending” suggests an intense desire or craving, while “like I’m Kenan” references Kenan Thompson, a prominent actor, and comedian known for the hit 90s TV show “Kenan and Kel.” The “Kel-Tec” is a reference to a brand of firearms, illustrating the dangerous and unpredictable nature of Yachty’s lifestyle.
Continuing, “If you mean it, baby girl, do you mean it? / I been leaning, baby girl, I been leaning” and “Hope you love me, baby, I hope you mean it”, Yachty delves into his relationships. Leaning is another term for the act of consuming cough syrup recreationally. He’s questioning the sincerity of a love interest while revealing his own vulnerabilities and struggles with substances.
Lastly, “Phone still ringing, battling all my demons,” serves as a confession of dealing with inner turmoil amidst the constant demands of fame. His phone ringing symbolizes continuous external pressure while his battle with demons is a metaphor for his personal struggles.
In summary, “Poland” serves as a reflection of Lil Yatchy’s fast-paced, international lifestyle, fueled by fame, while also acknowledging the ongoing personal struggles beneath the surface.
