I Know Where I've Been
Hairspray Lyrics

There's a light
Despite the surrounding darkness, there is hope or something to look forward to.

In the darkness
A metaphorical representation for difficult times, challenges, or struggles.

Though the night
Despite the presence of hardship or adversity.

Is black as my skin
A reference to the racial discrimination that exists in society; a reminder of the struggles faced by people of color.

Burning bright
Shining very clearly or brilliantly; something that provides guidance or direction through difficult times.

Showing me the way
Guiding or directing someone towards their goals or aspirations.

But I know where I've been
A declaration of perseverance and determination despite past struggles and hardships.

There's a cry
A metaphorical representation of a plea for help, justice, or change.

In the distance
Something that is far away or not easily attainable.

It's a voice
An expression of emotion or concern regarding a particular issue or injustice.

That comes from deep within
An indication that the concern or emotion is genuine and heartfelt.

Asking why
A question aimed at understanding the reasons why certain injustices, hardships, or struggles exist.

I pray the answer's up ahead
Expressing the hope and belief that things will get better and that solutions will be found to existing problems.

'Cause I know where I've been
A declaration of perseverance, resilience, and strength despite past struggles and challenges.

There's a road
A metaphorical representation of a journey or path towards a particular goal or destination.

We've been travelin'
A reference to the fact that the journey has started and progress has been made.

Lost so many on the way
A reference to the obstacles or difficulties encountered that have caused some people to give up or lose hope.

But the riches
The rewards, results, or benefits that can be obtained after overcoming struggles and challenges.

Will be plenty
There will be enough rewards or benefits to go around if everyone continues to persevere and work towards their goals.

Worth the price we had to pay
The benefits or rewards that can be obtained after overcoming obstacles or challenges make the struggles or sacrifices worthwhile.

There's a dream in the future
An aspirational goal, desire, or objective that one aims to achieve in the future.

There's a struggle we have yet to win
A reference to the challenges, obstacles, or struggles that one is yet to overcome in order to achieve their goals.

And there's pride in my heart
A feeling of satisfaction and self-respect for what one has achieved despite facing challenges and struggles.

'Cause I know where I'm going
A declaration of determination and confidence in achieving one's aspirations or goals.

There's a road we must travel
An emphasis on the fact that there still exists a journey, and one must continue to persevere in order to achieve their goals.

There's a promise we must make
A declaration of commitment to ensuring that injustices, hardships, struggles, or obstacles that prevent people from achieving their goals are dealt with.

Worth the risk and chances that we take
Emphasizes the importance of taking risks and making bold decisions to achieve one's aspirations or goals.

Use that pride in our hearts to lift us up to tomorrow
A realization that one's sense of pride and accomplishment can serve as a motivator for continuing to work hard and forging ahead towards achieving one's goals.

'Cause just to sit still would be a sin
A reference to the importance of continuing to work hard and persevere towards one's goals and aspirations rather than giving up or settling for less.

I know it, I know it, I know where I'm going
A declaration of confidence and assurance that one will achieve their goals and aspirations.

And Lord knows I know where I've been
Acknowledgment of past struggles and hardships that have been overcome through perseverance and resilience.

When we win, I'll give thanks to my God
Expressing gratitude and appreciation for the help and guidance received during difficult times.