These lyrics are so sparse yet so dense. He has several messages intertwined in this short song. It’s a message to all of the so-called thugs who think that it’s “summertime and the living and easy”. These are the ones who are out there on the streets making quick money and living the high life, with ‘friends’ and material possessions. All is well is until they get caught. It’s too late when they realize that when all of those things disappear, they are left to face the music…alone.

He’s also telling us, by sharing his violent and sad childhood, that life is going to throw several curve balls at you. Instead of crumbling under the devastation and sadness, you must persevere through it all.