I Wish
Patrick Lamb Lyrics


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Looking back on when I
Was a little nappy headed boy
Then my only worry
Was for Christmas what would be my toy
Even though we sometimes
Would not get a thing
We were happy with the
Joy the day would bring
Sneaking out the back door
To hang out with those hoodlum friends of mine
Greeted at the back door
With "Boy thought I told you not to go outside"
Trying your best to bring the water to your eyes
Thinking it might stop her from whooping your behind

I wish those days could come back once more
Why did those days ever have to go
I wish those days could come back once more
Why did those days ever have to go
'Cause I love them so

Brother says he's telling
About you playing doctor with that girl
Just don't tell I'll give you
Anything you want in this whole wide world
Mama gives you money for Sunday school
You trade yours for candy after church is through
Smoking cigarettes and writing something nasty on the wall ("You nasty boy.")
Teacher sends you to the principal's office down the hall
You grow up and learn that kind of thing isn't right
But while you were doing it-it sure felt out to sight

I wish those days could come back once more
Why did those days ever have to go




I wish those days could come back once more
Why did those days ever have to go

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Patrick Lamb's "I Wish" take on a nostalgic tone, reflecting on childhood memories and the innocence that comes with it. The opening lines paint a picture of a young boy who only worries about what toy he'll get for Christmas, even if there were times when his family couldn't afford much. Despite this, the joy of the day was enough to make him happy. The next few lines describe his friendship with some "hoodlum friends," highlighting the thrill of sneaking out and the fear of getting caught, culminating in the familiar threat of getting beaten by his mother. The chorus repeats this desire for those carefree days to return, expressing a deep love for them.


The second verse deals with some of the more taboo experiences of childhood - playing doctor with a girl and writing something nasty on a wall. These acts are juxtaposed with more innocent behaviors such as trading candy and going to Sunday school. The reference to getting in trouble with a teacher and ultimately learning that behavior is inappropriate suggests a sense of growth and maturity. However, it's clear that those moments of rebellion still hold a certain charm and excitement, even if they wouldn't be condoned as an adult.


Overall, "I Wish" is a wistful reflection on the innocence and joy of childhood, and the lingering appeal of the more naughty or rebellious moments. Through the vivid imagery and relatable scenarios, the song captures the nostalgic feeling of looking back on simpler times with fondness.


Line by Line Meaning

Looking back on when I
Reflecting on the past


Was a little nappy headed boy
As a young child


Then my only worry
The only concern I had


Was for Christmas what would be my toy
What gift I would receive for Christmas


Even though we sometimes
Despite the fact that at times


Would not get a thing
We wouldn't receive any gifts


We were happy with the
We found contentment in


Joy the day would bring
The happiness the day would bring


Sneaking out the back door
Leaving secretly through the rear exit


To hang out with those hoodlum friends of mine
To spend time with mischievous acquaintances


Greeted at the back door
Being met at the rear entrance


With 'Boy thought I told you not to go outside'
Being reprimanded for disobeying instructions


Trying your best to bring the water to your eyes
Attempting to cry


Thinking it might stop her from whooping your behind
Believing it could prevent punishment


Brother says he's telling
The brother is threatening to report


About you playing doctor with that girl
Regarding playing a sexual game with a girl


Just don't tell I'll give you
Keeping it a secret for a bribe


Anything you want in this whole wide world
Any desired item can be obtained


Mama gives you money for Sunday school
Mother provides allowance for religious education


You trade yours for candy after church is through
Exchanging the money for sweets


Smoking cigarettes and writing something nasty on the wall ('You nasty boy.')
Engaging in prohibited activities and vandalism


Teacher sends you to the principal's office down the hall
Being sent to the school administration office for discipline


You grow up and learn that kind of thing isn't right
Understanding that such behavior is not appropriate


But while you were doing it-it sure felt out to sight
Despite being wrong, at the time it felt exciting


I wish those days could come back once more
Expressing a desire to relive those moments


Why did those days ever have to go
Questioning why those times had to end


Cause I love them so
Because the memories are cherished




Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Royalty Network, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Peermusic Publishing, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Stevie Wonder

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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