One, Two, Three

Al Stewart's song 'One, Two, Three' delves into the deceptive simplicity of political and social manipulation. The repeated phrase 'like taking candy from a baby' underscores how easily those in power can exploit and control others, often without their awareness. The song's seemingly light-hearted tone contrasts sharply with its serious subject matter, creating a jarring effect that highlights the ease with which people can be misled.

The lyrics touch on various themes, including the exploitation of less developed countries ('Primitive country - rich in minerals, you pay them with beads') and the manipulation of public perception through media and foreign policy. Stewart points out that the real challenge lies not in the actions of those in power but in the public's ability to discern the truth. The lines 'The hard part is learning to doubt what you read, what you hear, what you see on the news' emphasize the difficulty of breaking through the facade created by those who control information.

Stewart also addresses the psychological grip that systems of power have on individuals. The song suggests that once people are 'sucked into the system,' it becomes incredibly challenging to resist its influence. The final lines, 'So in the end, we just compromise and pretend. If you close your eyes, it's easy,' reflect a sense of resignation and the human tendency to accept convenient lies over uncomfortable truths. This resignation is portrayed as a form of complicity, making the listener question their own role in perpetuating these systems of control.