Little Man
Tom Waits Lyrics


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(Teddy Edwards)

Sure as fire will burn
There's one thing you will learn
Those things you have cherished
Are things that you have earned
Luck is when opportunity
Meets with preparation
And the same is true for every generation

Little man
As you climb upon my knee
The whole future lies in thee
Little man

Little man
Never hurry, take it slow
Things worth while need time to grow
Little man

Don't look back
There are things that might distract
Move ahead towards your goal
And the answers will unfold
Little man

Love is always in the air
It is there for those who care
Little man

Don't look back
There are things that might distract
Move ahead towards your goal
And the answers will unfold
Little man
Love is always in the air
It is there for those who care
Little man
Little man




Little man
Little man

Overall Meaning

In Tom Waits's song "Little Man", the singer is offering advice to a younger generation, represented by the "little man" whom he addresses throughout the song. He begins by emphasizing that hard work is necessary to achieve success in life. He tells the little man that the things he has cherished are things that he has earned, and that luck is only the result of preparation meeting opportunity. The singer then goes on to urge the little man to take his time and not to hurry, reminding him that things worth having take time to grow. He tells him to focus on his goals and not to be distracted by things behind him, and promises that the answers will unfold as he works towards achieving those goals. Finally, the singer tells the little man that love is always present in life for those who care.


The song is a powerful reminder that success is not simply a matter of luck, but of hard work and preparation. The singer urges the little man to take his time and focus on his goals, emphasizing that the things that are truly worth having are the things that are earned through perseverance and dedication. The message of the song is a timeless one, applicable not only to the generation for which it was written but to all who strive for success and happiness in life.


Line by Line Meaning

Sure as fire will burn
As certain as the sun rising in the sky, this is something you can count on


There's one thing you will learn
You will realize one important lesson


Those things you have cherished
The possessions or experiences that you hold dear to your heart


Are things that you have earned
They are the result of your hard work and effort


Luck is when opportunity
Good fortune happens when the chance for success meets the right moment


Meets with preparation
When you have worked to be ready to take advantage of that opportunity


And the same is true for every generation
This is a universal truth that applies to everyone throughout time


Little man
A term of endearment and affection for a young child


As you climb upon my knee
As you sit close to me, seeking guidance and advice


The whole future lies in thee
You have the power to shape your own destiny and make a difference in the world


Never hurry, take it slow
Do not rush through life, but instead take your time to appreciate the journey


Things worth while need time to grow
Anything that is truly valuable and meaningful takes effort and patience to develop


Don't look back
Do not dwell on your past mistakes or regrets


There are things that might distract
There are many things in life that can divert your attention from your goals


Move ahead towards your goal
Have a clear vision of what you want to achieve and take action towards it


And the answers will unfold
Through perseverance and hard work, the solutions to your problems will become clear


Love is always in the air
Love is all around you, waiting to be discovered and shared


It is there for those who care
Anyone who is willing to open their heart and embrace love will find it


Little man
A reminder of the singer's affection for the child


Little man
A term of endearment used once again to emphasize the artist's love


Little man
A final farewell to the child, echoing the message of hope and encouragement




Contributed by Chloe V. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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Comments from YouTube:

Ozymandias Carter

Very impressed with the entire album. Thanks Mr Tom 👍

Raymond Schreck

I'm currently listening to the entire album, and I couldn't possibly properly say how encouraging I find this song. So glad I discovered it now.

Lucas Costa

Amo essa música. Toco para os meus filhos sempre

Christopher Buchdahl

Bless the simple homilies.

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