Give Me the Simple Life
Don Cherry & Willie Nelson Lyrics

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I don't believe in frettin' and grievin'
Why mess around with strife'
I never was cut out to step and strut out
Give me the simple life

Some find it pleasant dining on pheasant
Those things roll off my knife
Just serve me tomatoes and mashed potatoes

Give me the simple life

A cottage small if all I'm after
Not one that's spacious and wide
A house that rings with joy and laughter
And the ones you love inside

Some like the high road, I like the low road
Free from the care and strife

Sounds corny and seedy, but yes, indeed
Give me the simple life

Overall Meaning

The song "Give Me The Simple Life" by Don Cherry and Willie Nelson is an ode to living life with minimalism and simplicity. The song's lyrics assert the idea that there is no need for unnecessary complications or difficulties; instead, it is better to live life in a simple and uncomplicated way. The singer expresses their disdain for frettin' and grievin', suggesting that such negative emotions are a waste of time and energy. Instead, they prefer to live life absent of drama and chaos.

The lyrics also address the idea of materialism and the desire for extravagance. The singer indicates that some people may fancy dining on pheasant, but they have no interest in such luxuries. They would rather consume something as simple as tomatoes and mashed potatoes. Likewise, they express that they do not need a mansion or a grand house. A small cottage that is filled with laughter and joy from the people they love is enough. The song's chorus emphasizes the singer's desire for the simple life, which sounds corny and seedy to some, but it is what they truly want.

Line by Line Meaning

I don't believe in frettin' and grievin'
I don't see the point in worrying and stressing over things

Why mess around with strife'
Why bother with conflict and difficulties

I never was cut out to step and strut out
I'm not the type to show off and brag

Give me the simple life
I would rather have a peaceful and uncomplicated life

Some find it pleasant dining on pheasant
Some people enjoy fancy and expensive food

Those things roll off my knife
I prefer simpler and more familiar foods

Just serve me tomatoes and mashed potatoes
I'm happy with basic and comforting meals

A cottage small if all I'm after
I don't need a large or luxurious house

Not one that's spacious and wide
I don't care about having lots of space

A house that rings with joy and laughter
I want a home filled with happiness and enjoyment

And the ones you love inside
Where the people I care about are with me