Song meaning of Demons by Guster

The song "Demons" by Guster explores the concept of personal deception and its protective qualities. The lyrics suggest that the speaker, portrayed as someone who confuses others, uses deception to avoid vulnerability and the potential for emotional pain. The repeated phrase "When I speak I'll cross my fingers, will you know you've been deceived?" highlights the speaker's use of deceit as a defense mechanism. By crossing their fingers, they signal that what they are saying may not be entirely truthful.

The lyrics also touch upon the dichotomy between honesty and fiction. The line "Honest is easy, fiction's where genius lies" implies that being truthful can be challenging, while fabrication allows for more creativity and control over one's image. The speaker admits to choosing fiction over honesty, as it provides a shield from emotional involvement.

Overall, the song conveys the message that being a "demon," or a deceptive figure, offers protection from being hurt. It reflects a desire to maintain a facade, preventing others from seeing one's true self and the vulnerabilities that come with it. The repetition of the chorus strengthens the notion that being a demon provides an imperviousness to emotional pain, even if it comes at the cost of authenticity and genuine connection.