I'm Not A Killer
Original Off-Broadway Cast Lyrics


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You know, mum, there's nothing I wouldn't do for you
If there was a monster or an ogre or anything bad like that wot was after you
I'd rip it apart with my bare fists, I would

What a sweet child it is

Even if it was just a man
A man, dear?

A man wot was bad and wot might be luring you all unbeknownst into his evil deeds, like

Here, what is this? What are you talking about?

Nothing's gonna harm you
Not while I'm around
Nothing's gonna harm you
No, sir
Not while I'm around

Demons are prowling everywhere, nowadays
I'll send them howling
I don't care, I got ways

Of course you do
What a sweet, affectionate child it is

No one's gonna hurt you
No one's gonna dare
Others can desert you
Not to worry
Whistle, I'll be there

Demons'll charm you with a smile, for a while
But in time, nothing can harm you
Not while I'm around

What is this foolishness? What are you talking 'bout?

Not to worry, not to worry
I may not be smart but I ain't dumb
I can do it, put me to it
Show me something I can overcome
Not to worry, mum

Being close and being clever
Ain't like being true
I don't need to, I would never hide a thing from you
Like some

Now, Toby, dear
Haven't we had enough foolish chatter?
Let's just sit nice and quiet for a bit

Nothing's gonna harm you
Not while I'm around
Nothing's gonna harm you, darling
Not while I'm around

Demons are prowling everywhere, nowadays
I'll send them howling
I don't care

Boys and their fancies! What will we think of next?

No one's gonna hurt you
No one's gonna dare
Others can desert you
Not to worry
Whistle, I'll be there

Demons will charm you with a smile, for a while




But in time, nothing's gonna harm you
Not while I'm around

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "I'm Not a Killer" from the Original Off-Broadway Cast paint a poignant picture of a protective and devoted child reassuring his mother that he will do anything to keep her safe from harm. The song begins with the child expressing their unwavering loyalty and willingness to defend their mother against any threat, even if it means facing monsters or unknown dangers with their bare hands. This fierce determination to protect their loved one showcases the deep bond between the child and their mother, highlighting the sense of duty and love that drives their actions.


As the child continues to sing, they emphasize their belief in their ability to shield their mother from harm, vowing to confront any demons or dangers that may lurk in the shadows. The child's words convey a sense of fearlessness and strength, juxtaposed with their innocent and sweet demeanor. The juxtaposition between the child's tender affection towards their mother and their resolute determination to keep her safe adds layers of complexity to the song, underscoring the deep emotions at play.


The child's words take on a comforting tone as they assure their mother that nothing will harm her as long as they are around. This reassurance is repeated throughout the song, reinforcing the child's steadfast devotion and protective instincts. The child's conviction that they can overcome any threats and be there for their mother in times of need reflects a sense of unwavering loyalty and commitment to keeping her safe, no matter the circumstances.


In the final lines of the song, the child's innocence and purity shine through as they express their desire to be close, honest, and true to their mother. The lyrics highlight the child's willingness to face any challenges or obstacles to protect their mother, emphasizing the strength of their bond and the depth of their love. As the song comes to a close, the child's unwavering promise to shield their mother from harm echoes with a sense of hope and resilience, encapsulating the enduring love between a parent and child in the face of adversity.


Line by Line Meaning

You know, mum, there's nothing I wouldn't do for you
If there was a threat to you, I would do anything to protect you


I'd rip it apart with my bare fists, I would
I would fight off any danger with all my strength


Demons are prowling everywhere, nowadays
Evil forces are present everywhere these days


I can do it, put me to it
I am capable of overcoming any challenge you give me


Being close and being clever
Being near and intelligent


Boys and their fancies! What will we think of next?
Boys and their silly ideas! What will they come up with next?




Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Stephen Sondheim

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@VonCouch

When I saw this off broadway, a steady stream of blood was hitting Ash's mouth as he was cutting up Linda. How he hit those notes without gargling is still one of the most amazing things I've ever seen on stage.

@Broadsmile1987

Playback? :D

@stemann8894

I've never got to see the show live. I've owned the CD of the musical for 10 years and seen bootleg copies but this is by far my favourite song. Mmm, maybe Look who's evil now, I'm not sure.

@ghostgirl9567

This is my fav song in the show. I can't wait to play Linda! Hahaha

@ghostgirl9567

This October 🎃✨

@ashleyj.williams8566

M K
Hey babe.

@ghettobrown209

Best song of the show

@mdragonflame

I love this song <3

@strangelysuspicious2721

Only just found this, sounds top

@ripmauricelong

I wish I could hit that B flat.

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