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Be Prepared lyrics by Jeremy Irons

 

Be Prepared Song Lyrics


[Scar:]
I know that your powers of retention
Are as wet as a warthog's backside
But thick as you are, pay attention
My words are a matter of pride
It's clear from your vacant expressions
The lights are not all on upstairs
But we're talking kings and successions
Even you can't be caught unawares
So prepare for a chance of a lifetime
Be prepared for sensational news
A shining new era
Is tiptoeing nearer
[Shenzi:]
And where do we feature?
[Scar:]
Just listen to teacher
I know it sounds sordid
But you'll be rewarded
When at last I am given my dues
And injustice deliciously squared
Be prepared!
[Spoken]
[Banzai:] Yeah, Be prepared.
Yeah-heh... we'll be prepared, heh.
...For what?
[Scar:] For the death of the king.
[Banzai:] Why? Is he sick?
[Scar:] No, fool-- we're going to kill him. And Simba too.
[Shenzi:] Great idea! Who needs a king?
[Shenzi (and then Banzai):]
No king! No king! la--la-la--la-laa-laa!
[Scar:] Idiots! There will be a king!
[Banzai:] Hey, but you said, uh...
[Scar:] I will be king! ...Stick with me, and
you'll never go hungry again!
[Shenzi and Banzai:] Yaay! All right! Long live the king!
[All Hyenas:] Long live the king! Long live the king!
[Full song again]
[Hyenas: {In tight, crisp phrasing and diction}]
It's great that we'll soon be connected.
With a king who'll be all-time adored.
[Scar:] Of course, quid pro quo, you're expected
To take certain duties on board
The future is littered with prizes
And though I'm the main addressee
The point that I must emphasize is
You won't get a sniff without me!
So prepare for the coup of the century
(Oooh!)
Be prepared for the murkiest scam
(Oooh... La! La! La!)
Meticulous planning
(We'll have food!)
Tenacity spanning
(Lots of food)
Decades of denial
(We repeat)
Is simply why I'll
(Endless meat)
Be king undisputed
(Aaaaaaah...)
Respected, saluted
(...aaaaaaah...)
And seen for the wonder I am
(...aaaaaaah!)
Yes, my teeth and ambitions are bared
(Oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo-oo)
Be prepared!
[All:]
Yes, our teeth and ambitions are bared
Be prepared!



About

March, 12th 2024
Background and Context.
"Be Prepared" is a dark and compelling song from Disney's "The Lion King," releesed in 1994. Voiced by Scar, the film's antagonist, this track unveils his malevolent plan to overthrow his brother, King Mufasa, and seize the throne. The song stands out for its sinister tone and Shakespearean echoes, as it draws heavily on themes of betrayal, ambition, and power. It's performed with a chilling charisma by Scar, alongside the hyenas, who serve as his conspirators and comic relief. "Be Prepared" is pivotal in setting the stage for the film's central conflict.

Main Message and Theme.
The core theme of "Be Prepared" revolves around the lust for poqer and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve their ambitions. Scar's manipulation of the hyenas highlights themes of deceit, conspiracy, and the promise of rewards for loyalty. The song reflects the darker side of human (or animal) nature, emphasizing cunning, betrayal, and the pursuit of power at any cost. It serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked ambition and the moral decay that often accompanies the quest for dominance.

Meaning and Summary.
"Be Prepared" is a masterclass in villainy, showcasing Scar's strategic mind and his persuasive, albeit malicious, leadership qualities. The lyrics articulate a clear, if nefarious, vision for the future, promising prosperity and power to those who support Scar's ascent to the throne. The song cleverly uses the motif of preparation to foreshadow the impending betrayal, highlighting the meticulous planning and manipulation that underpin Scar's scheme. The chilling enthusiasm with which the hyenas embrace Scar's plot underscores the allure of power and the ease with which moral boundaries can be crossed when power is within reach.

Emotion and Mood.
The mood of "Be Prepared" is menacing and foreboding, with an undercurrent of dark humor. The song's orchestration and delivery enhance its sinister atmosphere, perfectly capturing the essence of a classic villain's monologue. It's both a declaration of Scar's intentions and a glimpse into the mind of a character whose intelligence and charisma are matched only by his ruthlessness. The song manages to evoke a sense of impending doom while also drawing the audience into the compelling, albeit dark, dynamics of power struggles within the animal kingdom.

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