The song "Can't Take That" by Esham explores themes of materialism, mortality, and the futile pursuit of wealth and possessions. The lyrics depict a character waking up in a messed up situation, financially broke and surrounded by bad influences. The protagonist expresses a desire for a key that could unlock all the obstacles and bring abundance. As the lyrics continue, the song touches on the cycle of hustling and accumulating wealth without stopping. The character mentions staying close to a weapon for protection and using drugs and illegal activities to make money. The lyrics metaphorically describe the process of creating drugs, turning them into hard substances, and selling them. The song then transitions to a reflection on the transient nature of material possessions and the meaninglessness of life if one's life is cut short. The chorus emphasizes that money and the things it buys cannot be taken with you after death. The lyrics also mention the futility of seeking fame and recognition through shows like American Idol, instead highlighting the dark and violent visions that the artist perceives. The song includes a spoken interlude that mentions a fictional character's wealth, diamonds, mansion, and wife, indicating that after death, none of these things will matter. The church will supposedly take care of the wife, suggesting that the character's wealth and possessions will be left behind and forgotten. As the song progresses, the lyrics become darker and more violent, touching on themes of murder and brutality. The protagonist mentions being unaffected by madness and having suicidal thoughts. The lyrics mention being shot multiple times and the indifference towards being loved or hated. The artist asserts that the world cannot phase them, and their visions involve violence and homicide. The chorus is repeated throughout the song to reinforce the idea that material possessions are ultimately meaningless and cannot be taken into the afterlife. The lyrics further emphasize this point by referencing death and the loss of loved ones. In summary, "Can't Take That" by Esham criticizes materialism, highlights the transience of wealth, and emphasizes the insignificance of possessions in the face of mortality. The song explores dark and violent themes, ultimately suggesting that the pursuit of material wealth is futile and that true meaning in life goes beyond material possessions.
