Babes In The Woods
Lyle Lovett Lyrics


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Babes in the woods
Oh which way to go
Babes in the woods
No one to say no
Pretty people come to me
Cry your heart all out
Tell me what it's all about
Who remembers kerouac
What was that all about
Right on jack
So long jack
Who remembers anything
And who cares anyhow
But here's to those still on the road
And those on the road back

Babes in the woods
Oh which way to go
Babes in the woods
No one to say no
Pretty people come to me
Cry your heart all out
Tell me what it's all about

Pretty people hear me cry




Cry my heart all out
Tell me what it's all about

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Lyle Lovett's song "Babes in the Woods" are about feeling lost and unsure in life. The title "Babes in the Woods" refers to the old story of two children who become lost in the forest. The first verse highlights the confusion of not knowing which direction to take in life and feeling like there is nobody to guide or advise. The second verse references the writer and poet Jack Kerouac, known for his "beat generation" writings that often celebrated a free and unconventional lifestyle. The lyrics question the meaning and relevance of his work and suggest that perhaps it doesn't matter anymore, but also acknowledge the spirit of those who are still searching for something more.


The chorus repeats the theme of feeling lost and alone, with the singer calling out to other lost souls to share their stories and struggles. The repetition of "cry your heart all out" suggests a sense of release in expressing emotions and being vulnerable with others. The second time the chorus is sung, the singer also turns the call for sharing inward, asking others to listen to their own cries and emotions. Overall, the lyrics of "Babes in the Woods" capture a sense of uncertainty and searching, but also offer an openness to connection and empathy.


Line by Line Meaning

Babes in the woods
Lost and unsure of which direction to take in life


Oh which way to go
Pleading for guidance and direction


Babes in the woods
Innocent and naive without anyone to provide guidance or boundaries


No one to say no
Without anyone to warn or protect from danger


Pretty people come to me
Attractive and seemingly successful individuals seeking comfort or advice


Cry your heart all out
Express your emotions fully and openly


Tell me what it's all about
Share your deepest fears and concerns with me


Who remembers kerouac
Reflecting on the past and reminiscing about previous experiences and people


What was that all about
Contemplating the meaning or significance of past events


Right on jack
Commemorating the life and work of Jack Kerouac


So long jack
Acknowledging Kerouac's passing and departure


Who remembers anything
Recognizing the impermanence and fleeting nature of life


And who cares anyhow
Questioning the significance or relevance of past memories or events


But here's to those still on the road
Acknowledging those who are still searching for their path or journey in life


And those on the road back
Recognizing those who have found their way back to a sense of purpose or direction


Pretty people hear me cry
Even attractive and successful people face emotional turmoil and hardship


Cry my heart all out
Expressing the depths of personal pain and sorrow


Tell me what it's all about
Seeking understanding and meaning amidst personal struggles




Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Written by: WALTER HYATT

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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