Don't Ask Me Why

I think this is about someone who grew up poor but was talented and made her way to success. She doesn't want people to know about her upbringing, but her worldview and advice make it possible to tell. I'm calling the subject a "her" because Billy calls her "baby."

(All the waiters in your grand cafe leave their tables when you blink. Every dog must have his every day; every drunk must have his drink) This is directed to her, and she already knows it. You can't trust anyone but yourself. People are going to do what they want to do without any regard for anyone else. Also note that it introduces her as someone successful - she owns a cafe.

(Don't wait for answers! Just take your chances.) The first bit of advice she dispenses. You're going to have to make your own decisions and nobody is going to help you. Clearly she's pretty cynical. Also, you can't afford to wait; you have to act.

(Don't ask me why!) She doesn't want to give any explanations as to why she thinks these things. She's learned them from experience she doesn't want to talk about.

(All your life you had to stand in line. Still you're standing on your feet!) I think this is probably a reference to breadlines/lines for government welfare programs. She grew up with a tough life, but was able to make it through with pride.

(All your choices made you change your mind. Now your calendar's complete) Not quite sure about the first part, but I think it's saying she grew up having to just react to what happened minute-by-minute to survive. She didn't have the stability to plan out their future. In the present, she has a very structured life, and has plenty of friends.

(Chorus again)

Then there's a weird romantic part; not sure if I'm interpreting it right. (You can say the human heart is only make believe) Her cynicism coming out again. (And I am only fighting fire with fire) I think Billy is courting her. He claims to want what's best for her but she thinks love is a lie. (But you are still a victim of the accidents you leave as sure as I'm a victim of desire) She can't isolate herself from her past, and he can't get away from his feelings for her, so they can't see eye-to-eye. Back to the main thrust of the song.

(All the servants in your new hotel throw their roses at your feet) She's growing a business empire. Everyone respects her, and it seems there will be a wide audience for her advice. (Fool them all but baby I can tell you're no stranger to the street) When you listen to her, she has some viewpoints that someone who grew up rich wouldn't really understand.

(Don't ask for favors!) Again, nobody will help you, so don't bother trying. (Don't talk to strangahs) It's a dangerous world. (Don't axe me why) I think he's trying to affect an accent more typical of a poorer upbringing.

(Yesterday you were an only child. Now your ghosts have gone away!) She's excised the worst elements of her psyche that she obtained in her harder life. (You can kill them in the classic style. Now you parlez vous francais) She is capable of harsh words and sticking up for herself, but now she's in a highfalutin' group, and learns a "sophisticated" language. Clearly she's very adaptable to her environment.

(Don't look for answers) This chorus could either be said by her or to her. Don't dwell on the past; it's not worth your time. (You took your chances!) What's done is done! (Don't ask me why.)