Always see the dangers first.
Always protect your feet.
Always be ready for cold.
Always be ready for heat.
Always know where good water or source is.
Always master the skills necessary.
Always get the job done.
Always know your place.
Always disallow foolishness.
Always rest whenever you can.

Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by.
(Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by,
like all signs they keep me on track)

It could be that we're all musicians
just singing our way through life together.

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to East Forest's song "10 Laws" depict ten fundamental principles that the singer lives by. These principles serve as a guide for how one should conduct themselves in the world, in order to survive and thrive. The first law is to always see the dangers first, which highlights the importance of being aware of potential danger in one's surroundings. The second law is to always protect your feet, emphasizing the need to take care of oneself physically, and avoid injury or harm. The next two laws focus on being prepared for environmental factors, such as cold and heat, and knowing where to find good water sources.

The remaining laws shift towards a more internal focus, covering topics such as mastering necessary skills, completing tasks effectively, and understanding one's place in the world. The final two laws revolve around disallowing foolishness and resting whenever possible; urging the listener to make wise decisions and prioritize their own well-being. Overall, these laws serve as a reminder to live a balanced and mindful life.

In the final lines of the song, the singer reflects on the universal nature of these laws as he states, "It could be that we're all musicians just singing our way through life together." This suggests that, while we may have different experiences and perspectives, we are all connected by our shared journey through life, and the principles that guide us along the way.

Line by Line Meaning

Always see the dangers first.
Look for potential threats and hazards before proceeding with any activity.

Always protect your feet.
Be mindful of your ground and protect your feet from harm.

Always be ready for cold.
Prepare for the cold weather conditions, so you don't get caught off-guard.

Always be ready for heat.
Be prepared for hot weather conditions, so you don't suffer in severe heat.

Always know where good water or source is.
Ensure that you know your water sources, and always have access to a safe water supply.

Always master the skills necessary.
Learn and develop the necessary skills required to accomplish tasks effectively.

Always get the job done.
Finish or complete every task that you commence.

Always know your place.
Understand your role and position in society and work towards fulfilling your duties accordingly.

Always disallow foolishness.
Reject or avoid any actions, ideas or people that are unwise or foolish.

Always rest whenever you can.
Take rest whenever possible to enable rejuvenation and increase productivity.

Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by.
The ten rules outlined are the principles that the artist lives by utilizing these principles to navigate through life.

(Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by,
This line spells out the concept that the ten rules are the foundation that the artist uses for decision-making.

like all signs they keep me on track)
This line explains that the ten laws are very crucial in keeping him grounded and focused as they provide meaning to his actions.

It could be that we're all musicians
This line brings the metaphorical representation that we all use distinct principles and rules in navigating life according to what we believe in.

just singing our way through life together.
This line is symbolic of everyone working together with common goals in life, utilizing their individual experiences, beliefs, principles or rules to contribute positively to society.

Contributed by Jason M. Suggest a correction in the comments below.

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Most interesting comment from YouTube:

@CreativeBroadcast

9y↑68

Always see the dangers first.
Always protect your feet.
Always be ready for cold.
Always be ready for heat.
Always know where good water or source is.
Always master the skills necessary.
Always get the job done.
Always know your place.
Always disallow foolishness.
Always rest whenever you can.

Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by.
(Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by,
like all signs they keep me on track)

It could be that we’re all musicians
just singing our way through life together.”

All comments from YouTube:

@CreativeBroadcast

9y↑68

Always see the dangers first.
Always protect your feet.
Always be ready for cold.
Always be ready for heat.
Always know where good water or source is.
Always master the skills necessary.
Always get the job done.
Always know your place.
Always disallow foolishness.
Always rest whenever you can.

Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by.
(Ten fingers, ten laws that I live by,
like all signs they keep me on track)

It could be that we’re all musicians
just singing our way through life together.”

@Scott-iz2yt

Thanks for writing it out. Do you know whose voice this is?

@krazypineapple3511

@@Scott-iz2yt Courtland Johnson I believe. Here's an interesting interview on the Ten Laws Podcast
https://youtu.be/q48WFNLk8Uw

@seancollins1681

42w

Thank you for this

@Darkmage1293

1y↑2

I remember when I sent this to someone, they severely criticized it...but this song has always had a good bit of resonance with me. It's pragmatic and good advice, the basis of your life. Avoid problems that seek to harm you, keep yourself upright, avoid severe conditions of the world, keep yourself hydrated (priority over food), learn what you need, and do what you must. Don't get cocky, know where you are in life....and remember to take a breather.