The song "The World Is A Ghetto" by the Geto Boys explores the hardships and struggles faced by individuals living in the ghetto. The lyrics discuss the daily realities of life in impoverished neighborhoods and the various tactics people employ to survive. The chorus emphasizes the common experiences that people in the ghetto face every day, highlighting the fact that the narrator lives in the ghetto and this is their reality. It reflects the struggles and challenges that come with living in a disadvantaged area. The first verse, delivered by Scarface, takes the listener on a journey through the other side of life, where people learn to accept and live with their handicaps, both physical and social. Scarface describes the harsh conditions in the ghetto, where money is scarce and the lack of financial stability often leads to desperate measures. He references his hometown of Houston, Texas, which lies on the borderline of hard times, suggesting that poverty and struggle are commonplace. Scarface also reflects on the deaths of his friends and the prevalence of violence within his community, emphasizing that few people die peacefully of old age in the ghetto. Bushwick Bill's verse touches on the global nature of the ghetto experience, referring to a village in Africa where hundreds of people died in guerilla warfare. However, he notes that their deaths went unnoticed and uncared for, highlighting the apathy of those in power. He also criticizes the corrupt police system that operates in predominantly minority neighborhoods and criticizes the lack of concern society has shown towards impoverished communities. Bushwick Bill presents the harsh realities faced by these communities, such as drugs, violence, and the struggle for survival. Willie D's verse focuses on the pride and resilience of his own neighborhood, the 5th Ward. He warns outsiders against bringing their preconceived notions and stereotypes into his community, asserting that they will be met with violence. He expresses frustration at the misconceptions perpetuated in Western movies about life in the ghetto. Willie D also addresses the issues of poverty and crime within his community, firmly asserting that his neighborhood is just as tough as any other. Overall, "The World Is A Ghetto" serves as a commentary on the impoverished conditions and struggles faced by those living in the ghetto. The lyrics shed light on the harsh realities of poverty, violence, and apathy, while also emphasizing the strength and resilience of these communities. The song serves as a reminder that the ghetto experience is not isolated; it is a global phenomenon.
