At the beginning of last semester, my apartment’s porch was declared a “no movement zone” so that our guests and residents alike could experience an unencumbered space in our relatively large six-bedroom Boston residence. Curvature can be a problem, especially when you're young, wild, and free, and the world seems to be your oyster - it's around this time that most people who will be curvy for the rest of their lives start curving, and it's also around this time that those who will be curvy for the rest of their lives People who only flex and stretch occasionally start experimenting with their flexion game. But what does "flex" mean in slang?
If you might not know what I'm talking about, let me explain. According to Urban Dictionary, the verb "to bend" essentially has one of two meanings. It can mean to show off, gloat, or brag, which is the most popular definition of the word; however, it can also mean to pretend, pretend, or force. The second definition is often used in conjunction with the first - for example, someone gloating about something they really have no right to gloat about, lying about an achievement, or exaggerating the truth.
This use of "flex" is most commonly used in rap and hip-hop music, but can be heard elsewhere. Here are some examples of lines used by rappers and other artists that will illustrate the correct use of the word:
"But I won't give in / 'til it's time to have sex" - Ice Cube
"No time for stress/I'm just being flexible" - Iggy Azalea
"I don't have to bend, but I do" - Rich Homie Quan
"Gucci low, Polo, diamond dance go go/As flexible as an army, the whole squad has my signature" - Waka Flocka Flame
"I'm in a lazy bend/I'm in a lady's bend" - Borgore
While flexing and the ideas behind it have been around for a long time, it has been revived recently by Rae Sremmurd, a hip-hop duo made up of two young brothers who were both under 21 when their songs were released age. The catchy lyrics and well-produced and clean music video made the song an instant hit and gave birth to the idea of the "Inelastic Zone".
While no flex areas are certainly necessary in order for people to relax, act like themselves, and not be shown off or forced by others, it's also important to remember that it's okay to bend sometimes. In fact, for every free zone there should be an area suitable for free movement so that people can celebrate themselves and their achievements and move freely for their friends and family. It's important to strike that balance and know that there is a time and place for both. But let's face it: sometimes, even in no-bend areas, you can't help but bend a little.
Image: Mehak Anwar
