The meaning of How To Love by Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne, born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., has always shown an uncanny ability to blend elements of a variety of musical genres into his work. Perhaps no song in his catalogue demonstrates this better than "How to Love." While it may appear to be a departure from his usual style, the song uses several key elements that have been benchmarks of Carter's music.

Firstly, "How to Love" is a poignant narrative that showcases Lil Wayne’s lyrical prowess. The song tells the story of a woman who has faced hardships throughout her life - from a troubled childhood to failed relationships and more. The lyrics are raw and emotional, touching on the theme of how human beings crave and need love, but sometimes don't truly know how to love, give love, or accept it.

Furthermore, Lil Wayne has taken the liberty to tackle the issue of generational cycles of hardship. Through his lyrics, he paints the picture of a woman who struggles to find the right path because she never received the right direction. It tells the story not just of one woman, but of many people who fall into the same loop of insecurities and self-doubt, an aspect that makes this song ever relevant to the listeners.

What sets this song apart is Lil Wayne’s musical style. Known primarily for his rapping skills, he surprised fans by mostly singing on "How to Love". It denotes a departure from his traditional hip-hop trappings and leans more into a softer R&B vibe. This move singlehandedly erased the boundaries between genres, highlighting Carter’s versatility as an artist.

Coupled with his vulnerability seen on this track, it is a marked shift from the braggadocious lyrics he is often associated with. It also demonstrates a deep sense of empathy for the character in the song, revealing Wayne's ability to express a wide range of emotions throughout his works.

Yet, despite its unique style, "How to Love" still contains elements that are completely and unmistakably Lil Wayne. The expertly crafted lyrics use vivid imagery to paint a picture of life's harsh realities. Along with that, the rhythm and style are unique and noted for the acoustic guitar track, a rarity in modern hip-hop music.

In conclusion, "How to Love" is a testament to Lil Wayne’s diversity and artistry. It offers an empathetic narrative that screams of dire realities, told in a soothing and melodic way. Combining his storytelling prowess, musical genius, and the human condition's raw emotions, Lil Wayne has created a poignant and heartbreaking anthem of resilience and self-awareness.