The song "Ring Them Bells" by Sarah Jarosz urges people to wake up and pay attention to the world around them. The lyrics call for the bells to be rung from various places, such as sanctuaries and city streets, to signal that time is running out and things have gone awry. The verses touch on issues like poverty, injustice, and moral decay, suggesting that even the shepherd has fallen asleep and left his flock to wander astray. The song speaks to the need to unite and take action, with the singer asking for the bells to be rung for all who are left behind, for the chosen few who will judge the many, and for the innocence that dies too soon. The repeated refrain of "ring them bells" is a call to arms, a plea to wake up and take responsibility for the world we live in. The song ends on a hopeful note, with the bells ringing from the top of the room and the fortress, signaling that even in the face of long lines and strong fighting, there is still a chance to make things right and let the lilies of peace and love bloom.
