House On Fire
Melissa Ferrick Lyrics


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You are the most important person to me
But I've been watching your light fade
And I can't seem to say anything
Without you pointing and yelling at me

But your house is on fire
I can see it from the end of the road
Your house is on fire
Everybody knows, every body knows

So come on take off that heavy, heavy...heavy coat
And just admit that its your life and you dont feel like you can cope
'Cuz there are woman from our history who are living underneath your skin
And the've been waiting for you to let go and finally give in

But your house is on fire
I can see it from the end of the road
Your house is on fire
Everybody knows, everybody knows - yeah...your house is on fire, is on fire

So ask the help of Jesus, ask the help of Allah
No one really cares how many skeletons are in your closet
We will help you open up the windows
open up your heart now and let in fresh air
'Cuz all I see is smoke rising from your body
As you walk around here, you're working this party
with a smile on your face and a dagger in your hand
I'm throwing you a rope my friend
climb up, climb up, climb up here on dry land


But your house is on fire
I can see it from the end of the road




Your house is on fire
Everybody knows, every body knows

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Melissa Ferrick's song House on Fire depict a concern for a loved one whose life seems to be in turmoil. The singer addresses this person, telling them that they are the most important person to them but they have noticed that their light is fading. The singer feels they can't say anything without being yelled at or criticized by the loved one. Despite this, the singer can't help but notice that the loved one's "house is on fire." The metaphorical meaning of this is that the loved one's life is in danger, and everyone can see it. However, the loved one refuses to acknowledge it and instead puts on a smile while carrying a dagger in their hand.


The song suggests that the loved one needs to confront the issues in their life and let go of the burden of their history. They need to open up their heart and ask for help, whether it be from Jesus, Allah or other forms of support. The singer and others are willing to help them open up the windows and let in fresh air. However, it is up to the loved one to take responsibility for their own life and face their struggles.


Overall, House on Fire is a powerful song about the danger of ignoring one's problems and the importance of seeking help when needed. It is a reminder that no one is alone and help is always available for those who seek it.


Line by Line Meaning

You are the most important person to me
I value you the most in my life.


But I've been watching your light fade
I have noticed you losing your spark.


And I can't seem to say anything
I am struggling to express myself to you.


Without you pointing and yelling at me
You tend to respond angrily even to my sincere words.


But your house is on fire
Your life is in chaos and problems surround you.


I can see it from the end of the road
The problems in your life are visible to everyone.


Everybody knows, every body knows
People are aware of your troubles and concerns.


So come on take off that heavy, heavy...heavy coat
Let go of the burdens that weigh you down.


And just admit that its your life and you dont feel like you can cope
Acknowledge that you are struggling to handle things in your own life.


Cuz there are woman from our history who are living underneath your skin
The struggles of the past are still affecting you.


And the've been waiting for you to let go and finally give in
It's essential to move on from the past and allow yourself to heal.


So ask the help of Jesus, ask the help of Allah
Reach out to a higher power for support and guidance.


No one really cares how many skeletons are in your closet
Your past mistakes are not important to those who care about you.


We will help you open up the windows
We are here to offer help and support in letting in fresh energy.


open up your heart now and let in fresh air
It's time to be receptive to new ideas and positive changes.


All I see is smoke rising from your body
The negative energy surrounding you is visible and palpable.


As you walk around here, you're working this party
You are maintaining a facade of happiness when you are struggling inside.


with a smile on your face and a dagger in your hand
You are harboring negative feelings while hiding them from others.


I'm throwing you a rope my friend
I am reaching out to help you escape your troubles.


climb up, climb up, climb up here on dry land
Accept my support and allow yourself to move towards a better situation.




Contributed by Madison D. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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