Where Does It Lead
Letta Mbulu Lyrics

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Where does it lead?
This strange young love of mine
Only heaven and the lilies know

Where does it lead?
This strange young love of mine
I must go down where the lilies grow

I say play on the lily reed
Lowly low
Play to him till he heed
To my woe

Where does it lead?
This strange young love of mine
Anywhere it takes me
I will go

Play on the lily reed
Lowly low
Play to him till he heed
To my woe

Where does it lead?
This strange young love of mine
Anywhere it takes me
I will go
Anywhere it takes me
I will go
I will go

Overall Meaning

These lyrics from Letta Mbulu’s song “Where Does It Lead” explore the theme of young love and uncertainty about where it might lead. The singer calls it “strange” and wonders where it will take her, seeking answers only from “heaven and the lilies.” She expresses her determination to follow it wherever it leads, even if it takes her down to where the lilies grow.

The second verse has the singer imploring the lily reed to play until her lover “heeds” her “woe”. This adds further depth to the uncertainty in her heart concerning her lover. She repeats her earlier sentiment that she'll follow this love wherever it takes her. Interesting to note is the metaphor of the lily reed signifies hope that her love will eventually heed to her plea.

Line by Line Meaning

Where does it lead?
What is the destination of this unclear path?

This strange young love of mine
This unfamiliar and youthful relationship of mine

Only heaven and the lilies know
It is unknown, except by divine and natural forces

I must go down where the lilies grow
I have to venture to where beauty is present

I say play on the lily reed
I suggest the musician to play on an instrument made of flowers

Lowly low
Slowly and softly

Play to him till he heed
Keep playing until the person pays attention

To my woe
Because of my distress

Anywhere it takes me
No matter what direction it leads me

I will go
I am willing to travel this uncertain journey

Anywhere it takes me
No matter what course it follows