Everybody Says Don't
by Stephen Sondheim


Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't it isn't right
Don't it isn't nice

Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't walk on the grass
Don't disturb the peace
Don't skate on the ice

Well I say Do. I say,
Walk on the grass it was meant to feel
I say sail
tilt at the windmill
And if you fail you fail!

Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't
Everybody says don't get out of line
When they say that, then, lady that's a sign
Nine times out of ten
Lady you are doing just fine.

Make just a ripple come on be brave
This time a ripple next time a wave
Sometimes you have to start small,
Climbing the tiniest wall
Maybe you're going to fall
But it is better than not starting at all.

Everybody says No. Stop.
Musn't rock the boat
Musn't touch a thing

Everybody says don't
Everybody says wait
Everybody says can't fight city-hall
Can't upset the court
Can't laugh at the king!

Well I say try. I say,
Laugh at the King or he'll make you cry
Lose your poise
Fall if you have to, but lady, make a noise... Yes!

Everybody says don't
Everybody says can't
Everybody says wait around for miracles
That's the way the world is made
I insist on miracles, if you do then,
Miracles might come true,

Then I say don't... Don't be afraid!