I know I know nothing -  Aton O’Cat

Release information about “I know I know nothing”

• Artist: Aton O’Cat

• Release date: March 4, 2021

• Genre: Pop Rock / Thoughtful Rock 

• Theme: Humility, political awareness, public responsibility 

• Lyrics & Music: Joseph J. Nota

• Mood: Contemplative, serious, reflective, with strong, powerful chorus moments 

About “I know I know nothing”

"I Know I Know Nothing” is rooted in the famous philosophical statement attributed to Socrates more than 2,500 years ago.

The song translates that ancient insight into a modern musical context. In a world full of loud opinions, political polarization, and self-proclaimed certainty, Aton O’Cat argues for modesty and openness. The lyrics address politically active people, public figures, and “heroes,” reminding them that influence comes with responsibility.

The song stands as a timeless reflection on how humility can reduce division and public disorder. It invites listeners not to shout louder, but to listen more carefully.

Song meaning / interpretation “I know I know nothing”

The central message is simple yet profound: admitting that you don’t know everything is the beginning of wisdom.

The recurring chorus -

I know I know nothing
That’s why I try to listen to anybody
Because each one of us knows something
And even then still we are nobody

- emphasizes collective knowledge. No single individual holds all truth. Everyone carries a piece of understanding, but none of us is above the whole.

The verses address:

• Politically active individuals, urging sensitivity and humility.

• Public figures,  reminding them that words have consequences.

Rather than attacking specific ideologies, the song promotes intellectual modesty as a universal value.

Musical DNA “I know I know nothing”

Musically, “I Know I Know Nothing” is built around contrast and controlled intensity:

• Calm, steady mid-tempo foundation, creating space for reflection

• Restrained verses, delivered thoughtfully and almost conversationally

• Powerful, emphatic choruses, where the vocals rise in strength and conviction

• Clear melodic structure, making the philosophical message accessible

• Dynamic build-up, reinforcing the transition from contemplation to statement

• Clean, balanced production, keeping the lyrics central

The musical arrangement mirrors the message: quiet reflection in the verses leads to confident, almost declarative humility in the chorus. The power is not aggressive, it is purposeful.

Full lyrics “I know I know nothing”

(Lyrics and Music  -  © Joseph J Nota)

For you thinking out of the box

May feel as Socratic paradox

You always knew you were right

But from another view you might not be so bright

I know I know nothing

That’s why I try to listen to anybody

Because each one of us knows something

And even then still we are nobody

For those of you politically active

Please try to be sensitive

Being humble always is in order

Only modesty affects public disorder

I know I know nothing

That’s why I try to listen to anybody

Because each one of us knows something

And even then still we are nobody

For those of you who are a public hero

What you say never stays under zero

So be careful with your opinion

And don’t cause a negative multiplication

I know I know nothing

That’s why I try to listen to anybody

Because each one of us knows something

And even then still we are nobody

I know I know nothing

That’s why I try to listen to anybody

Because each one of us knows something

And even then still we are nobody

Listen on Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube / Tidal / Amazon Music / Deezer: