“Into the Woods” is a musical with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, blending classic fairy tales into a deeper, more complex narrative. The lyrics explore themes of wishes, consequences, morality, and the interconnectedness of stories. Each character starts with a personal goal, but the journey through the woods brings unexpected challenges.
The lyrics shift from lighthearted to dark, revealing truths about human nature and growth. Sondheim’s clever wordplay and emotional depth make the lyrics both entertaining and thought-provoking. Overall, “Into the Woods” lyrics are rich with meaning and layered with symbolism.
into the woods lyrics
Song credit table for “Into the Woods”:
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Into the Woods |
| Lyricist | Stephen Sondheim |
| Composer | Stephen Sondheim |
| Book (Script) | James Lapine |
| Original Production | Broadway, 1987 |
| Director | James Lapine |
| Music Publisher | Rilting Music, Inc. |
| Rights Holder | Music Theatre International (MTI) |
Lyrics
Once upon a time
Into the woods it’s time to go
It may be all in vain I know
Into the woods but even so I have to take the journey
Into the woods the path is straight
I know it well, but who can tell?
Into the woods to lift the spell
Into the woods to visit mother
Into the woods to fetch the things
To make the potion
To go to the festival
Into the woods without regret
The choice is made, the task is set
Into the woods, but not forgetting why I’m on the journey
Into the woods to get my wish
I don’t care how, the time is now
Into the woods to sell the cow
Into the woods to get the money
Into the woods to lift the spell
To make the potion
To go to the festival
Into the woods to grandmother’s house
Into the woods to grandmother’s house
The way is clear, the light is good
I have no fear, nor no one should
The woods are just trees
The trees are just wood
No need to be afraid there
There’s something in the glade there
Into the woods without delay, but careful not to lose the way
Into the woods, who knows what may be lurking on the journey
Into the woods to get the thing, that makes it worth the journeying
Into the woods to see the King
To sell the cow
To make the potion
To see, to sell, to get, to bring, to make, to lift
To go to the festival
Into the woods
Into the woods
Into the woods then out of the woods
And home before dark!
Summary
The song “Into the Woods” begins with characters setting off on a journey driven by personal wishes and goals—whether it’s to lift a spell, fetch items, or go to a festival. Though they’re unsure of what lies ahead, they are determined to move forward.
The lyrics reflect a mix of hope, urgency, and caution as they step into the unknown. The woods represent both a literal and symbolic path of discovery and challenge. Despite fear and mystery, the journey is necessary—and they aim to return safely before dark.
Conclusion
The lyrics of “Into the Woods” capture the excitement and uncertainty of pursuing one’s desires. Each character’s journey through the woods symbolizes a deeper quest for growth, truth, and transformation.
With rich, poetic language and a blend of realism and fantasy, the song reminds us that every journey, no matter how uncertain, is a step toward understanding ourselves and the world around us.
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