“The Cut Off” appropriately named, talks about Cole having to cut people off who were close to him due to lack of trust and being taken advantage of. He realized that he was giving a lot of himself to others and not getting enough in return.

He also expresses his desire to retaliate, but reminds himself that revenge is the Lord’s work.

It is crucial to emphasize the opposing character that kILL Edward represents. J. Cole is advocating against drugs because of the experiences he has seen of those who use substances around him. He knows the toll that substance abuse can take on individuals – Edward is a quintessential example of an addict who is manipulated by the drugs that he is using. Cole wishes to be helpful and prevent the possibility for further victims in his community, as well as at a larger scale in society – he doesn’t want to see anyone else like Edward.