Meaning of "I Better Be Good" by Alice Cooper

The lyrics of "I Better Be Good" by Alice Cooper convey a sense of impending consequences for not conforming to societal expectations and norms. The repetition of "I better be good" and "you better be nice" throughout the song serves as a warning to the listener about the potential repercussions of not following the rules. The lyrics touch on various areas where one is expected to behave a certain way, whether it's at home, in school, with a romantic partner, or in public. The threat of military school, the cold shoulder of a girlfriend, or the wrath of law enforcement are used as examples to illustrate the need to comply with expectations. The song can be interpreted as a reflection on the pressure to conform to societal standards and the fear of punishment for deviating from them. It also sheds light on the idea that individuals are constantly under scrutiny, whether it's from family, friends, or authority figures, and the anxiety that can come from trying to meet everyone's expectations.