The lyric “My age is reversed, I’m basically thirty, extremely sure, weird and wordy” from Eminem’s song “Evil Twin” off The Marshall Mathers LP 2 is a striking example of his signature wordplay and self-reflection, which are central to his rap style. In this line, Eminem combines several layers of meaning, utilizing both numerical and linguistic elements to express his complex identity.

When Eminem says, “My age is reversed,” he’s likely referring to the number 13—his age reversed numerically (31 being the age he was when the album was released). The significance of 13 is not only numerical but symbolic, as it represents a phase in his career where he has reflected on his journey from a young, hungry artist to a seasoned veteran in the industry. The use of “reversed” could also imply a sense of timelessness or a paradox, where despite the passing of years, Eminem feels as if he is still at the peak of his powers, essentially reversing the aging process. He’s not just a rapper—he’s someone whose craft remains consistently sharp, relevant, and ahead of its time.

The phrase “I’m basically thirty” is another example of self-awareness. Eminem plays with his age in a way that shows he is grounded in his current self but also sees himself in a more youthful light, indicating a refusal to age in the traditional sense. It speaks to his enduring energy and his refusal to be boxed in by age or expectations, much like his career, which defies conventional norms.

The next part of the line, “extremely sure,” hints at the confidence that Eminem has gained throughout his career. Despite the controversies and challenges he’s faced, he’s unwavering in his self-assuredness, particularly in his abilities as a lyricist and artist. This phrase reflects how, over the years, he’s become more resolute in his perspective, pushing the boundaries of his genre while also holding strong to his roots. He’s fully aware of his impact on the rap scene and on music in general.

Finally, the words “weird and wordy” encapsulate two defining traits of Eminem’s persona. He’s always been considered an eccentric and unconventional figure in both his public life and his music. The “weird” part speaks to his unique personality and unorthodox approach to rapping. It’s a badge of honor for him, showing that he’s never been afraid to stand out and challenge norms. “Wordy” is an acknowledgment of his skill as a lyricist—his ability to craft intricate, complex rhymes with dense wordplay. Eminem is known for his technical prowess, and this phrase speaks to his deliberate use of language to convey depth, humor, and multiple layers of meaning.

This lyric, in sum, reflects Eminem’s complicated relationship with age, fame, and identity. He presents himself as both a veteran and a perpetual student of the craft, constantly evolving yet staying true to the eccentric and unapologetic persona that made him a household name. The line is a masterclass in lyrical self-awareness, showcasing how Eminem uses humor, clever wordplay, and a sharp understanding of his position in the music world to continue crafting music that challenges both him and his listeners.