Rule #3 - Paperwork

Fish In a Birdcage's song "Rule #3 - Paperwork" is a poignant critique of modern life's bureaucratic and monotonous nature. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of how society has become entangled in endless paperwork, losing touch with more meaningful and fulfilling activities. The metaphor of 'planting trees' versus 'burying ourselves in paperwork' is central to the song, symbolizing the contrast between nurturing life and creativity versus being bogged down by administrative tasks and routines.

The song opens with the imagery of lighting a flame just to watch it burn, suggesting a sense of futility and loss. This is followed by a lament on how we've lost our connection to the earth and our roots, emphasizing a disconnection from nature and simpler, more authentic ways of living. The repetition of the phrase 'buried ourselves in paperwork' underscores the suffocating effect of bureaucratic life, where the focus is on mundane tasks rather than on activities that bring joy and growth, like planting trees.

The chorus, with its repeated advice to 'kick back, relax,' serves as a call to reclaim our lives from the grip of paperwork. It questions the harm in wanting to enjoy life and play good tunes, highlighting the absurdity of prioritizing paperwork over personal well-being and community improvement. The song also touches on the mental constraints we place on ourselves, suggesting that the rules and limitations are often self-imposed and can be overcome by changing our mindset.

In the final verses, the song shifts to a more hopeful tone, advocating for spreading love and making a positive impact on the streets rather than being bogged down by paperwork. The call to 'plant some trees' is a metaphor for engaging in activities that foster growth, community, and environmental stewardship. The song ultimately encourages listeners to break free from the monotony of paperwork and embrace a more fulfilling and liberated way of life.