Growing Pains
Tony Bennett Lyrics


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One day your mama drops the hem of your skirt
Next day you give up yelling what's for dessert
You can't explain it but you're one solid hurt
Baby, you've got growing pains

Your Christmas penny doesn't look half so bright
Papa's not president since maybe tonight
When you're not quite so sure that Mom's always right
Baby, you've got growing pains
Nothing's wrong, just growing pains
And they'll never hurt too long

When there are cobwebs in dreams that you weave
When there's no magic in the words 'Make believe'
When doubt comes peeping out and tugs at your sleeve
Baby, you've got growing pains

When you come home from school and don't slam the door
Ride down the banisters or slide 'cross the floor
When you don't cry for every toy in the store
Baby, you've got growing pains




They're not bad, just growing pains
You'll be awfully glad you had

Overall Meaning

them someday


The lyrics of Tony Bennett's song "Growing Pains" describe the experience of growing up and the various changes and challenges that come with it. The song is written from the perspective of someone who is watching a young person go through these changes and recognizing that they are just a natural part of life. The first verse talks about the physical changes that come with growing up, like a girl's skirt getting longer and a child no longer demanding dessert. These seemingly small changes can still cause a lot of emotional turmoil, as the child is still trying to navigate the world around them. The second verse touches on more complicated changes, like realizing that parents aren't infallible or losing faith in the power of imagination.


The chorus acknowledges that these growing pains can be difficult, but also reassures the listener that they won't last forever. The final verse focuses on the positive aspects of growing up, like learning to control one's emotions and developing a more mature attitude. The song overall is a nostalgic reflection on the process of growing up and how it shapes us as individuals.


Line by Line Meaning

One day your mama drops the hem of your skirt
When you start realizing and experiencing changes and growth in your life.


Next day you give up yelling what's for dessert
When you start sacrificing childish demands and accept responsibilities.


You can't explain it but you're one solid hurt
When you feel hurt and uncomfortable due to the changes that come with growth and maturity.


Baby, you've got growing pains
The discomfort and struggles that come with the process of growth and maturity.


Your Christmas penny doesn't look half so bright
When things that used to bring you joy start to become less important or desirable to you.


Papa's not president since maybe tonight
When the authority figures in your life lose some of their power or significance.


When you're not quite so sure that Mom's always right
When you start questioning the beliefs and teachings of those who have authority over you.


Nothing's wrong, just growing pains
The struggles that come with growth and development are normal and not indicative of a larger problem.


And they'll never hurt too long
The challenges that come with growth eventually pass and do not cause long-term harm.


When there are cobwebs in dreams that you weave
When you start questioning or doubting your own aspirations and ambitions.


When there's no magic in the words 'Make believe'
When the illusions and fantasies of childhood lose their charm or appeal.


When doubt comes peeping out and tugs at your sleeve
When uncertainty and hesitation begin to impact your decisions and confidence.


When you come home from school and don't slam the door
When you start behaving in a more mature and respectful manner towards others.


Ride down the banisters or slide 'cross the floor
When you start enjoying and appreciating simpler pleasures and experiences rather than seeking constant excitement or stimulation.


When you don't cry for every toy in the store
When you begin to prioritize and make more informed decisions about your wants and needs.


They're not bad, just growing pains
The struggles and discomfort that come with growth are not inherently negative or harmful.


You'll be awfully glad you had
Despite the temporary discomfort, the growth and development you experience will ultimately be beneficial and rewarding.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: ARTHUR SCHWARTZ, DOROTHY FIELDS

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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