Meaning of "Excellent Birds" by Laurie Anderson

The lyrics of "Excellent Birds" by Laurie Anderson focus on the contrast between the simple beauty of nature, as represented by the flying birds and falling snow, and the complexity of human interaction and society, portrayed through the imagery of people rising up and falling down. The repetition of phrases such as "This is the picture" and "I see pictures of people" emphasizes the idea of visualizing both the present and the future. The act of looking out and watching out can be seen as a metaphor for being aware and observant of the world around us, while the idea of people standing on their heads and being ready suggests a sense of balance and preparedness for whatever may come. Overall, the song seems to reflect on the interconnectedness of nature and human life, urging listeners to be present and attentive to the world in all its forms.