3DDoman

Lupe is basically just saying that in capitalist consumption-based society such as the United States, people have a constant, insatiable desire nearly equivalent to that of physical starvation. However, this desire is irrational, because we have enough to sustain ourselves and “never die”. “Hungry Ghosts” is most likely a reference to the Buddhist concept of spiritual hunger that can never be filled, but also highlights the near mindlessness of consumerism.

I’m pretty sure Hodgy says “too many posers tryin' to ride my boa-con-strict” meaning that people are acting like him

Drake’s just saying that people always compare hip-hop legends to current artists, much like in any profession.

Eventually, Drake’s father decided to leave him and his mother and go back to Memphis and sell drugs, just as he did before settling down.

This ties in with the previous line. This “Ho that’s decent” is looking for a guy to hug and cuddle (boyfriend type stuff). Earl capitalizes on her naivety and just wants to get some head and get out.

A continuation of the previous royalty/crown metaphor

This is a reference to how AIDS/HIV was viewed during the scare in the 80s. Back then, people had all kinds of ignorant theories like only gays/blacks/etc could get it. Some people also thought that it was “Gods punishment” or something of the nature (i.e. the “preacher man” saying it would kill off the soul)

The disease is The Streets and in these lines, Lupe is saying that in an area where everyone is hood (infected by the Streets) they want you to be just like them. They pressure you to join gangs, commit crimes, etc. The only way to avoid becoming infected is to disassociate yourself with people who’re already infected.

It should be noted that this song was originally just Drake’s verse. After he released it, the other people hopped on, because they side with Drake and also think that Aristo’s a bitch.

Drake usually isn’t one to respond to disses or get in competition with other artists.