Lyric discussion by Zamrod 

Cover art for Second Best lyrics by Barenaked Ladies

I know this song has been said by BNL to be about the war. This album was their most politically motivated album and they don't apologize for it.

This is pretty much about the US. About how they are the best and they are letting everyone know it by beating their chest and attacking. The rest of the world isn't impressed by their demonstration.

"If winning is an art Then it's drawn us apart When you erased your heart and beat your chest"

Is talking about the rift in relations between the US and Canada because the US seemed to stop caring about people and instead insists of winning to prove their superiority.