"Criminal" by Eminem is a song from his album "The Marshall Mathers LP," released in 2000. The song was written by Eminem himself and serves as a satirical commentary on how society perceives him as an artist. The lyrics begin by addressing the misconceptions people have about Eminem as an individual and his lyrics. He sarcastically states that if people believe his violent and controversial lyrics, then he might as well kill them because he's being labeled as a criminal anyway. Eminem goes on to use offensive and derogatory language to challenge societal norms and provoke a reaction from his audience. He intentionally tackles sensitive topics like homosexuality, misogyny, and drugs in a way that is meant to shock and disturb the listener. The song also touches on Eminem's troubled childhood, highlighting his mother's drug abuse while she was pregnant with him and the challenges he faced growing up. He shares his own personal struggles and frustrations, juxtaposing them with his growing success as a rapper. Throughout the song, Eminem displays his disregard for the opinions and expectations of others. He refuses to conform to societal norms and expresses his determination to speak his mind freely, regardless of the consequences. The chorus emphasizes his rebellious nature and refusal to be silenced. It's important to note that the song uses offensive language and controversial themes as a form of artistic expression. Eminem often uses shock value to challenge listeners and spark conversations about societal issues.
