Meaning of "Beware" by Andrew Bird

"Beware" by Andrew Bird delves into the idea of skepticism and critical thinking, urging listeners to question the information they receive and not blindly follow authority figures or popular belief. The reference to the reign of Nero and the concept of zero serves as a reminder that knowledge and ideas are constantly evolving, and what may seem like common knowledge now was once unheard of. The song warns against blindly following orders and urges listeners to think for themselves, especially in a world where misinformation and deceit are prevalent. The repetition of "beware" and the imagery of soldiers with stripes on their shoulders suggest a sense of foreboding and the idea of being vigilant against unseen threats. Ultimately, the lyrics suggest that the devil, often seen as a symbol of evil or deception, may be the only one who truly cares about exposing the lies and manipulation present in society.