Ain't it just like dying
Except you can still feel the shame
All hands on deck now
The sea is getting rough again

You see him out your window
And even when you close the blinds
Cause all you ever wanted
Was someone to treat you nice and kind

Take a step before runnin'
Take a breath now before you dive
When you run the streets
Make sure your sneaker laces they get tied

I'll be a black bird darling
Hanging on your telephone wire
Flap my wings over you
And set your heart afire



Lyrics submitted by Starlight152

Track duration: 02:56


All You Ever Wanted song meanings
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13 Comments

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  • 0
    General Comment:I can definitly understand where you all are comming from with the prostitution situation, but to be hurting and lost, your life doesnt have to be a complete tradgety. The song is obviously getting out of a harsh situation, but there are several other occations in which the context could be used.
    Flag WaitingForOctoberon April 05, 2011   Link
  • +2
    General Comment:I agree with Number1zero. I would add however that this is from the point of view of someone in the Travis Bickle mould who seeks to protect her...has feelings for her. Travis however exploded into a psychopathic rage, where Dan's POV on this is far more resigned.
    Flag champiodion January 12, 2011   Link
  • +1
    General Comment:this is about a rape victim turned prostitute
    Flag number1zeroon July 22, 2010   Link
  • +1
    General Comment:I love the warble in Dan's voice in this song. I love Dan period. This is one of my favorites from this album.
    Flag labeano2002on June 28, 2010   Link
  • 0
    My Opinion:Yes, the correct line is "when you WORK the streets". Maybe it's just that one line but I always thought this song was about a broken-down prostitute. As much as she is touched, she never feels love. All she ever wanted was real love, not the hollow love she gets by doing her job. This track is my favorite off this album.
    Flag FBAM0707on April 13, 2010   Link
  • +1
    General Comment:Isn't it supposed to be "when you WORK the streets / Make sure your sneaker laces get tied"? I always thought this was a nod to Leonard Cohen. From "I'm Your Man" - "And if you want to work the streets alone / I'll disappear for you" Kind of like saying do what you need to do, but know that I'm looking out for you, etc. And then the last part alludes to "Bird on a Wire."
    Flag artsluton August 13, 2009   Link
  • 0
    General Comment:Fucking love this song! I definitely relate to all the feelings and imagery. Classic!
    Flag pourmeanotheron February 01, 2009   Link
  • 0
    General Comment:LOVE THE BLACK KEYS!! this song is AMAZING
    Flag TiOon October 25, 2008   Link
  • 0
    General Comment:tied between a few others for the best song on this album (in my opinion). if you buy the record of this album it comes with the cd. what a deal!
    Flag fastmotion123on August 31, 2008   Link
  • 0
    General Comment:why aren't there more comments here?

    anyway, i think this song is pretty obvious. a chick had her heart broken, can't get over it, but the speaker is telling her to buck up and know better for next time. and maybe he just might also have a secret thing for her, too.

    anyway fucking beautiful song. great use of drums especially.
    Flag nonpareil_xxon June 24, 2008   Link

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