Introduction:
“Life Was A Play (The World A Stage)” is a song by Toby Keith released in 1994 on his album Boomtown. Unlike many of Keith’s more upbeat, anthemic tracks, this song takes on a reflective and contemplative tone. It’s a ballad that metaphorically describes life as a play and the world as a grand stage, inviting listeners to join Keith in looking back on life’s journey, the roles played, and the experiences witnessed.
In this track, Keith uses his signature baritone voice to convey themes of experience, regret, and the passage of time. The song delves into the complexities of growing up, acknowledging both the joys and heartbreaks of life. It resonates with listeners who have traveled the road of life, offering a sense of vulnerability as Keith reflects on his own mistakes and the support he received along the way. This introspective and thoughtful piece allows listeners to ponder their own lives and the parts they’ve played on the world’s stage.
Video:
Lyrics:
“Life Was A Play (The World Was A Stage)”
Life was a play and the world a stage
Lust, love and greed were in my heart
I thought I had to play each partI’d skip school and get in a fight
Had a different girl every Friday night
But it all came out in the wash
Dad always said boys will be boys
Mom and dad backed me through it all
Picked me up each time I’d fall
In fact they called it growing pains
And said all kids must try such things
They kept the faith and brought me through
I still make a mistake or two
Lookin’ back on my younger days
Life was a play and the world a stage
I lost my driver’s license twice
For speeding and running red lights
But like all kids I lived and learned
Play with fire and you’ll get burned
I bucked the system day and night
Smoked cigarettes and tried the wine
Thought breakin’ rules was bein’ cool
It’s clear to me now I was a fool
Mom and dad backed me through it all
Picked me up each time I’d fall
In fact they called it growing pains
And said all kids must try such things
They kept the faith and brought me through
I still make a mistake or two
Lookin’ back on my younger days
Life was a play and the world a stage
Yeah everything turned out ok
Life was a play and the world a stage