In the book Decoded, the characters and events relate to the movie Notorious. The movie Notorious is about the life of deceased rapper Biggie Smalls. In both stories Jay Z and Biggie are both aspiring rappers who deal rocks on the streets of New York. Biggie, who is a few years before Jay-Z's time paved the way for hustlers turned rappers. Both of these rappers wanted to express themselves through music, while also getting away from the streets. They both lived for this lifestyle, the fame and recognition was intoxicating. The author is trying to show how much work it takes to break into the rap game. Both of these artists started small and had to work for it. Each of them also had to deal with beef's with other rappers. It's all just part of the game.