But I Might Die Tonight Lyrics

Lyric discussion by SwedishFish 

Cover art for But I Might Die Tonight lyrics by Cat Stevens

I agree this song is about a young person who disagrees with what others think is "best" for him (whether that´s his father or society at large). However, unlike Father and Son, this song is completely from the "son´s" perspective.

There is one part that I´ve always wondered about though... Anyone have opinions on what this line means?

"Cause I know for sure Nobody should be that poor"

I have two theories..

1)Figurative meaning: Noone should be so poor as to spend their entire lives working. 2)Literal meaning: Poverty is wrong, and rather than waste our time on our petty jobs, we should dedicate ourselves to helping people.

I am guessing it´s the figurative meaning considering the next to lines, which go back to the main theme of thinking for oneself vs. submitting to societal expectations: "To say yes or sink low Because you happen to say so, say so, you say so "

I am interested in other interpretations!

My Interpretation