Stephen Sondheim
Everybody Says Don’t
[HAPGOOD]
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
Sometimеs you have to start small
Climbing the tiniest wall
Maybе you're going to fall
But it's better than not starting at all!

Everybody says no
Everybody says stop
Everybody says mustn't rock the boat
Mustn't touch a thing

Everybody says don't
Everybody says wait
Everybody says can't fight City Hall
Can't upset the cart
Can't laugh at the King!

Well, I say
Try!
I say
Laugh at the kings or they'll make you cry
Lose your
Poise
Fall if you have to
But, lady, make a noise!
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 them
Miracles—nothing to them!
I say don't—
Don't be afraid!