If the crisp autumn leaves
that fall swiftly from the trees
can be swept away on an October breeze...
why can't I?

If the bluebirds chirping happily
ever-present in the morning sky
at any time they wanted to
could spread their wings and fly...
why can't I?

Inside of me, there's a raging fire
that urges me to soar ever higher
as it threatens to consume me with its flaming desire
and I ache to get away...

yet, when in my ear the call of freedom rings
and I begin to stretch my eager wings
like a kite, the world yanks on my strings
and again I'm forced to stay...

"Why must you pull me back to earth?!
Why must you clip my wings?!", I cry,
"What harm have I caused to thee
or crime have I committed to be
help captive here under lock and key
and left to watch the days go by?"

If I only had a single wish
I'd want to know not more than this...
if I wish for nothing more
than to spread my wings and fly...
then tell me why can't I?..."

please tell me... why can't I?