'Swan Swan Hummingbird' by R.E.M. what is it about?

Question

Something to do with the Civil War?

Answer 1

From what I see on the Net Johhny Reb is used to denote a confederate soldier in the civil war. And with some affection from persons who think highly of the South's rebel stand in the civil war.
This is taken from a web page more about the song: http://www.flim.com/remlafaq/lrp/swanswanh.html
"According to Stipe the song was inspired by a book of post-Civil war correspondence of former slaves. [Ron Henry] * Stipe suggests this should be pronounced "Swan Swan Huh", starting to say "hummingbird", but getting cut off before reaching the "ummingbird" part."
This is consistent with the best explanations of the song which I have read in one of the many books about REM and their songs. However, with REM's songs there are often contradicting stories in other books and even contradicting quotes by Stipe and co about the same song...There are many books about REM - like REM Inside Out, The complete guide to music of R.E.M., Remarks: the story of R.E.M. (the updated version of Remarks is called Remarks - Remade and is up to date thru Reveal.)
There are many other books too - some which are up to date.