I don't want to set the world on fire
Sonny Til & The Orioles Lyrics
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I would rather be with you an hour
For the things that one can buy
Are not worth a lover's sigh
I don't want to set the world on fire
I just want to start a flame in your heart
In my heart I have but one desire
I've lost all ambition for worldly acclaim
I just want to be the one you love
And with your admission that you feel the same
I'll have reached the goal I'm dreaming of, believe me
I don't want to set the world on fire
I just want to start a flame in your heart
The lyrics to Sonny Til & The Orioles's "I Don't Want to Set the World on Fire" express a simple but powerful sentiment: that the love and companionship of one person is worth more than any material possessions or worldly success. The singer is clear in their rejection of the idea of "rising to power," instead of stating that they would rather spend time with their lover. They go on to say that material possessions are not worth as much as the feeling of love, and that their only desire is the person they love.
The chorus repeats the same sentiment, with the singer stating that they don't want to achieve great things or make a huge impact on the world - they just want to kindle a flame of love within the person they care about. The final lines reiterate the singer's devotion to their lover, saying that all they want is to be loved in return.
Overall, the song is a powerful expression of the value of love and companionship over material possessions or worldly success.
Line by Line Meaning
I don't ever care to rise to power
I have no interest in attaining position or authority
I would rather be with you an hour
I prefer spending time with you, even for a short amount of time
For the things that one can buy
In reference to material possessions that can be purchased
Are not worth a lover's sigh
The joy gained from acquiring material things is insignificant compared to that of love
I don't want to set the world on fire
I do not wish to create a global impact
I just want to start a flame in your heart
All I aim to do is ignite passion inside of you
In my heart I have but one desire
My heart holds only one wish
And that one is you, no other will do
That wish is for you and no one else can fulfill it
I've lost all ambition for worldly acclaim
My aspirations for fame and prestige has disappeared
I just want to be the one you love
All I desire is to be the recipient of your love
And with your admission that you feel the same
If you feel the same way towards me
I'll have reached the goal I'm dreaming of, believe me
That would be accomplishing the main goal I am currently dreaming of, trust me
Lyrics © DistroKid, BMG Rights Management, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd., Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Bennie Benjamin, Eddie Durham, Eddie Seiler, Sol Marcus
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind