The song begins with the line "Lord have mercy on my soul," a prayer for divine forgiveness and guidance. This suggests the speaker is aware of his flaws and shortcomings and seeks redemption.
Throughout the song, West and other featured artists rap about the trappings of success: expensive cars, lavish lifestyles, and the pursuit of material wealth. They acknowledge that these things can bring temporary pleasure but ultimately leave them feeling empty and unfulfilled.
The chorus reinforces this idea: "I'm in too deep to turn around, I've been chasin' this dream way too long. I can't stop now, I've gone too far, I put everything on the line for you." This suggests the speaker is so entrenched in his pursuit of success that he feels trapped and unable to change his ways, even though he realizes the negative impact it has on his life.
The song also addresses the challenges and sacrifices that come with achieving success. West references his struggles with addiction and mental health issues, and how he has lost friends and relationships along the way.
Despite the challenges, the speaker remains determined to achieve his goals. He says, "I'm not perfect, but I'm worth it. I'm not finished, but I'm still workin'." This shows his resilience and determination, even in the face of adversity.
Overall, the lyrics of "Mercy" convey a complex exploration of the pursuit of success and the personal struggles and sacrifices that come with it. West reflects on his own experiences and urges listeners to consider the moral and spiritual implications of their actions.