I Don't Want to Set the World On Fire
Fats Domino Lyrics


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I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire
I don't want to set this great big world on fire
I don't want to set the world on fire
I just want to start a flame in your heart

A flame in your heart

In my home I have but one desire
And that one is you no other will do

No other will do

I've lost all ambition for worldly acclaim
I just wanna be the one you love
And with your admission that you feel the same
I have reached the goal I'm dreaming of believe me
I don't want to set the world on fire
I just wanna start a flame in your heart

A flame in your heart

I've lost all ambition for worldly acclaim
I just wanna be the one you love
And with your admission that you feel the same
I have reached the goal I'm dreaming of believe me
I don't want to set the world on fire
I just wanna start a flame in your heart





A flame in your heart

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Fats Domino's song "I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire" speak of a desire to focus on one person, rather than conquering the world. The song expresses a desire for intimacy and a deep connection with someone, rather than achieving worldly fame and success. The repetition of the chorus, "I don't want to set the world on fire, I just want to start a flame in your heart", emphasizes this sentiment, and highlights the power of love to transform and ignite a passion within an individual. The singer is declaring that for him, the most important accomplishment is being with the person he loves, and hearing that they feel the same way.


The use of fire as a metaphor for passion and desire, both in the title and throughout the song, creates a strong visual image for the listener. The idea of a flame in the heart suggests a burning desire for love and affection, and the singer is expressing a willingness to put his heart on the line in order to achieve this. The lyrics are simple yet heartfelt, and the repetition of the chorus reinforces the message of the song; that love can be a guiding light in life, even more important than worldly aspirations.


Line by Line Meaning

I don't want to set this great big world on fire
I am not interested in causing chaos and destruction on a global scale.


I don't want to set the world on fire
I have no desire to ignite an inferno that would consume everything and everyone.


I just want to start a flame in your heart
All I crave is to kindle a spark of passion and love within your being.


In my home I have but one desire
As I sit in the comfort of my dwelling, there is only one longing that consumes me.


And that one is you no other will do
It is you alone who I yearn for, no one else could take your place.


I've lost all ambition for worldly acclaim
The pursuit of fame, fortune or power no longer holds any allure for me.


I just wanna be the one you love
All I want is to be the object of your affection and devotion.


And with your admission that you feel the same
If you confess that you share my feelings, my heart's deepest desire will be fulfilled.


I have reached the goal I'm dreaming of believe me
If you embrace me with love, I will have achieved the pinnacle of my dreams.


I don't want to set the world on fire
Once again, I emphasize that my aim is not to cause devastation or turmoil.


I just wanna start a flame in your heart
All I seek is to ignite a passion within you that would forever burn bright.




Lyrics © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Bennie Benjamin, Eddie Durham, Eddie Seiler, Sol Marcus

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

B Bop

great rendition - there are many god ones but this version hits the spot. in my opinion

Michael Smith

Hits the ink spot?

Holy Moly

Album Fats On Fire -my favorite album ! Fats Domino was genius!

Nurken Rustem

​@Holy Moly Seems like Fats liked Ray's Modern Sounds of C&W album arrgangement.

Dorothy Lingwood

Yes folks this is brilliant recording - fats is ace and the tops xx😍

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