What Would You Say
Dave Matthews Lyrics

Up and down the puppies' hair
Refers to the chaotic, unpredictable nature of life - just like the way a dog's hair can be all over the place.

Fleas and ticks jump everywhere
Continuing on the theme of chaos, this line suggests that there are always going to be things in life that annoy or frustrate us, just like the way dogs can pick up fleas and ticks.

'Cause of original sin
A reference to the Christian belief that Adam and Eve's first sin caused a fall from grace for all of humanity, and thus everything bad that happens in the world can be traced back to that initial event.

Down the hill, fell Jack and Hill
A playful twist on the classic nursery rhyme 'Jack and Jill', suggesting that sometimes things don't go according to plan and people (or puppies) can trip and fall.

And you came tumbling after
Refers to the idea that we can be influenced or affected by the people around us - if one person falls, others may follow suit.

Rip away the tears
A call to action to try and overcome feelings of sadness or grief.

Drink a hope to happy years
Suggests that we should try to focus on positive things and have faith that good things will come in the future.

And you may find a lifetime's passed you by
Reinforces the idea that life is unpredictable and short, and we should make the most of our time while we can.

What would you say?
A rhetorical question that asks the listener to reflect on their own values and beliefs.

Don't drop the big one
A reference to nuclear war and the idea that individuals should try to prevent catastrophic events from happening.

If you a monkey on a string
A metaphor for feeling trapped or controlled in life, and the importance of breaking free from those constraints.

Don't cut my lifeline
A plea to not sever relationships or ties that are important to someone's well-being.

If you a doggie on a chain
Continuing on the metaphor of feeling trapped, this time referring to the feeling of being tied down or held back in life.

Don't bite the mailman
A humorous line that suggests we shouldn't snap at the people who are just trying to do their jobs - a metaphor for being patient and understanding with others.

Every dog has its day
A common saying that suggests everyone will have their moment of triumph or success eventually.

Every day has its way of being forgotten
A reminder that time moves quickly and the things we do today may not be remembered tomorrow.

Mom, it's my birthday, would you say?
A nostalgic line that conjures up memories of childhood birthdays, and the simple joys of life.

What could you say?
Another rhetorical question that suggests the power of words and their ability to comfort or encourage others.

I don't understand at best
An acknowledgement that there are many things in life that we may never fully comprehend or make sense of.

And cannot speak for all the rest
A humble admission that our own experiences and perspectives may not reflect those of others.

The morning rise, a lifetime's passed me by
An observation that time flies and it's easy to lose track of the years that have gone by.