The song lyrics were written by the band Van Halen, as they were asked to write a song for the 1979 movie "Over the Edge" starring Matt Dillon. The movie (and the lyrics, although more obliquely) are about bored, rebellious youth with nothing better to do than get into trouble. If you see the movie, these lyrics will make more sense. It's a great movie if you grew up in the 70s/80s you'll definitely remember some of these characters from your own life. Fun fact, after writing the song, Van Halen decided not to let the movie use it.
It may not always be so
And I say and if your lips
Which I have loved should touch another's
And your dear strong fingers clutch her heart
As mine in time not far away
If on another's face your sweet hair lay
In such a silence as I know
Or such great rising words, as uttering overmuch
Stand helplessly before the spirit at bay
If this should be, I say
If this should be you of my heart
Send me a little word
That I may go unto her
And take her hands saying
Accept all happiness from me
Then I shall turn my face
And hear one bird sing terribly
Afar in the lost lands
And I say and if your lips
Which I have loved should touch another's
And your dear strong fingers clutch her heart
As mine in time not far away
If on another's face your sweet hair lay
In such a silence as I know
Or such great rising words, as uttering overmuch
Stand helplessly before the spirit at bay
If this should be, I say
If this should be you of my heart
Send me a little word
That I may go unto her
And take her hands saying
Accept all happiness from me
Then I shall turn my face
And hear one bird sing terribly
Afar in the lost lands
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