"Crosses" by Genesis Owusu is a powerful and introspective song that explores themes of identity, struggle, and the weight of generational sins. The lyrics depict the artist's experience as a marginalized individual in society, feeling like a stranger in his own land. The opening lines, "Said I'm a stranger in my land, spitting on a helping hand, and I'm out here making waves, but I built my house on sand," suggest a sense of displacement and frustration. The artist feels disconnected from his roots and finds himself rejecting assistance, potentially due to a lack of trust or a feeling of not belonging. The line "You built your house on slaughter, spread the blackness through my veins, rip your claws right through my altar, growing stronger on my pain" refers to the detrimental impact of systemic racism and oppression on the artist's life. The metaphorical language suggests that the artist's own identity and well-being have been affected by the actions and history of others. The artist questions whether they can ever regain their sense of self, asking, "Can I ever be the same? Will I ever feel the summer?" This line reflects a longing for a brighter, more hopeful future, free from the burdens and pain they have experienced. The lyrics also touch on the artist's observations of others around him who seem unaffected or oblivious to the struggles faced by marginalized communities. The line "And I watch you through the window whisper sweetness to my brothers, tryna drag them through the mist" suggests a sense of betrayal or frustration toward those who perpetuate ignorance or deny the lived experiences of others. The chorus emphasizes the idea that everyone carries their own burdens, but the artist asserts that his father's sins do not define him: "And everybody's got a cross to bear, my father's sins are not a part of me." This line reinforces the theme of individuality and the desire to break free from the legacy of past generations. The latter part of the song addresses issues of racial inequality and the artist's frustration with the music industry, where he feels his voice is not adequately represented. He critiques the privilege that seems to benefit white individuals in the industry, expressing his desire for a more equal playing field. Despite the challenges faced, the artist maintains a resilient spirit, fighting against adversity and embracing his own unique perspective. The song's lyrics paint a complex picture of struggle, perseverance, and the search for personal identity in a world marked by injustice and inequality.
