"What Can You Believe" by Black Flag is a critique of the deceptive nature of society and the difficulty in discerning the truth. The song opens with the protagonist encountering a man who claims to have everything, but the protagonist remains skeptical, implying that appearances can be deceiving. This introduces the theme of questioning the validity of people's claims and the idea of not easily accepting things at face value.
The second verse brings the protagonist downtown where he meets a bald-headed man preaching unity and freedom. However, the protagonist again doubts the sincerity of this message, suggesting that unity and freedom may not always go hand in hand. The use of an orange bathrobe and being a "bald-headed fool" adds a sense of absurdity to the situation, emphasizing the nonsensical nature of the messages being presented.
The final verse delves into the broader issue of people's tendency to judge others based on superficial characteristics. The lyrics challenge the idea of making assumptions about someone's character based on their appearance. The phrase "you can't judge a book by looking at the cover" underscores the need for deeper understanding and empathy in order to truly know someone.
Overall, the song encourages listeners to critically question the information they receive and not to judge others based on superficial appearances. It highlights the need for a discerning mind and an open heart in navigating the complexities of the world and understanding what can be believed.
This meaning interpretation has been generated by AI.
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