The meaning of the lyrics of the song "Street Poetry" by the artist "Tyler Joseph"

Tyler Joseph's "Street Poetry" delves into the struggle with inner demons and societal pressures. The lyrical protagonist uses rap as a means to silence the "voices" in his head, potentially symbolizing doubts, fears, or imposed societal expectations.

The phrase "This is an infestation of my imagination, I hope they choke on the smoke 'cause I'm smokin' them out the basement" metaphorically describes the desire to get rid of oppressive thoughts. The "basement" can be interpreted as the subconscious, where all suppressed emotions and fears are hidden.

Further, Tyler emphasizes that his creative work is not an attempt to prove something to someone or fit into the framework of hip-hop culture. It's a way of self-expression and battling inner demons. He is not alone in his desire to "say nothing," which may indicate the prevalence of suppressing one's true feelings in society.

The line "I wasn't the only one who wasn't rushing to say something" can be interpreted as an appeal to listeners who are also afraid to be heard. It's as if Tyler encourages them not to be afraid to express themselves and their thoughts.

The second part of the text moves to criticizing the superficial attitude towards life that the protagonist observes in others. The phrase "If I didn't know you better, I'd think you were all already dead" conveys disappointment from interacting with people who don't value life and live it by inertia.

The image of "crazy, crippled, warped zombies" vividly illustrates a mindless existence devoid of purpose and meaning. The slogan "You only live once" in the mouths of these "zombies" sounds like an excuse for inaction and unwillingness to change.

In contrast, Tyler calls for awareness and active participation in one's life: "You only get one chance to figure it out... One chance to dance and one chance to shout." He emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and the need to use every moment to find one's path and express oneself.

The comparison of death to a dog that inspires a rabbit creates a sense of constant pursuit and reminds us that time is relentlessly running out. It encourages action, searching for one's purpose and realizing one's potential before it's too late.

Thus, "Street Poetry" is not just a set of rhyming lines but a deep reflection on the meaning of life, finding one's place in the world, and the struggle with inner demons.