ContinuedThe sanguine tone used in "The Show Goes On" plants a seed in the listener’s mind, letting them know that a positive mindset will get them through any hardship. In the first verse, Lupe states, "when times are hard, you stand up." Statements such as this one are useful in motivating listeners to separate themselves from their circumstances and rise up whenever times get tough. This is also exhibited in the line "so, even if they ban us, they’ll never slow my plans up," as Lupe is expressing that he’s not going to let anyone or anything become a barrier on his journey to success.
Fiasco builds on influential imagery throughout the melody by making use of phrases such as: "chains all on your soul," revealing that people are so accustomed to being controlled and treated poorly that they can be compared to slaves. He’s suggesting that people should be true to themselves and manage their own decisions rather than having them made for them. In the last verse, Lupe also says, "even if they turn the lights out, the show is going on."
For the duration of the tune, the significance of individuality is powerfully represented by Lupe Fiasco’s utilization of positive and promising imagery and figurative language. Within his depiction of goals and how you should approach them, he leaves listeners feeling stimulated and inspired. With the numerous amounts of individuals that have encountered difficulty at some point in their lives, Lupe Fiasco uses this track as a relatable, reassuring anthem that the world can resort to to prosper in spite of those hard times. This metaphor displays his extensive optimism in showing that no matter what negativity you may be facing, in order to keep moving forward in this show called life, we must develop this mentality to be able to pull through any situation thrown at us. These phrases are supportive in expressing the need for self-trust, exhibiting a celebration of individuality in addition to the need for the reformation of self and society.