Meaning of "If You Be Wise" by Kenny Loggins

The song "If You Be Wise" tells the story of a woman who has been hurt by a man who travels around, charming and leaving a trail of broken hearts behind. The lyrics serve as a cautionary tale to others to avoid falling for the same type of person who may seem adventurous and exciting but ultimately cannot commit. The woman in the song reflects on how she was warned about getting involved with a traveling man, yet she ignored the advice and ended up heartbroken. The repeated chorus serves as a reminder to trust in one's own wisdom and intuition when it comes to matters of the heart, and to not be blinded by the temporary allure of a charismatic but unreliable partner. The lyrics suggest that it is better to be smart, wise, and attentive to red flags in relationships to avoid repeating the same painful mistakes.