Lyrics
Look in the mirror
Reflection and self-identification
I am the man
Assertion of being 'the man'
Mrs. Miller says
Reference to an individual affirming the same
I am the man
Reiteration of self-identity
Ask the birds singin'
Asking nature or surroundings to acknowledge this identity
I am the man
Reassertion of self-identity
Everyone is a fan
Claiming popularity or admiration
A little walk through the neighborhood
Engaging in a local stroll
People nod 'cause it's understood
Receiving acknowledgment due to a shared understanding
Mr. Henry comes out to stand
Specifically named person acknowledging the individual
A wave and shout-out
Greeting or acknowledging the individual
To the man
Reaffirmation of being 'the man'
Ask the birds singin'
Repeating the question to the birds, asking for confirmation
I am the man
Reassertion of self-identity through popular demand
By popular demand
Claiming acknowledgment or admiration by many
The little skinhead with the tattooed face
Description of encounters with diverse individuals
Shows me a moment of style and grace
Recognition of a moment of style and grace from someone
The old hippie with the tie-dye headband
Recognition of an old hippie's gesture
Flashes a peace sign to the man
Receiving a peace sign acknowledgment
Ask the birds singin'
Repeating the question to the birds, seeking validation
I am the man
Stating personal effort and capacity
Well, I do what I can
Expressing determination and contribution
The angry redneck in his pickup truck
Encounter with an individual who might stereotype but acknowledges positively
Tips his hat and gives the thumbs-up
Acknowledgment from someone with different beliefs or lifestyle
The New Age guy with the yoga mat
Receiving a blessing or positive gesture from a New Age practitioner
Blesses me with a pat on the back
Receiving appreciation for one's efforts
The long haired indie rock kid in a band
Recognition from a young musician
Looks through his hair and shakes my hand
Exchanging acknowledgment and respect with a fan
The old homeless guy who smells like pee
Encounter with a homeless person showing recognition
Stops talking nonsense and says "Morning, E"
Greeting from the homeless person with a familiar name
Ask the birds singin'
Repeating the question to the birds, seeking confirmation
I am the man
Asserting self-identity as part of a greater plan
It's all part of the plan
Stating that encounters are part of a predetermined course
The thug rapper with the gold and chains
Encounter with a person from a different cultural background who acknowledges positively
Puts in his grill and says "Good day"
Receiving a respectful acknowledgment from a stereotyped figure
The politician going door to door
Encounter with a politician expressing dismissiveness
Says "No vote means more to me than yours"
Politician's statement reflecting disregard for a certain group
Ask the birds singin'
Repeating the question to the birds, seeking validation
I am the man
Reiteration of being 'the man'
You know I'd win if I ran
Confidence in winning if participating in a competition
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