“How you gon’ see ‘em if you live in the fog’?

Much of the work of Earl Simmons, known artistically as DMX, has been produced within the arena of spiritual struggle. The lyrics of his “Damien” trilogy songs and of “Slippin,” in particular, can be analyzed within the framework of theodicy. The symbolism in the songs has generated heated debate through the years, such as the chorus that weaves all “Damien” songs together: “The snake, the rat, the cat and the dog, how you gon’ see ‘em if you live in the fog.” These lyrics raise an important question: is a person capable of distinguishing the different forms of evil when living in a fog of inordinate attachment to worldly temptations? This chapter answers this question through a close examination of both the personal and artistic theodicy of DMX. Despite personal failings, DMX continues to identify as a Christian who studies scripture and hopes to become a pastor. This chapter argues for a notion of theodicy that parallels the work and life of DMX and several rap fans and religious followers like him.