Don't You Push Me Down

Words and Music by Woody Guthrie

Well you can play with me
And you can hold my hand.
We can skip together
Down to the Pretzel man
You can wear my mommy's shoes
Put on my daddy's hat
You can even laugh at me
But don't you push me down.

Don't you push me, push me, push me,
Don't you push me down,
Don't you push me, push me, push me,
Don't you push me down.

You can play with me.
We can play all day.
You can use my dishes
If you'll put them away.
You can feed me apples
And oranges and plums.
You can even wash my face,
But don't you push me down.

You can play with me.
We can build a house,
You can take my ball
And bounce it all around.
You can take my skates
And ride them all around.
You can even get mad at me,
But don't you push me down.



Can anyone tell me what's the meaning behind these lyrics?

What do you think they mean? You can play with me, but don't push me down. What does it mean to push someone down? Is it meant literally, like pushing another kid on the playground so that he/she falls down? Or is it a metaphor for pushing someone down the economic/social ladder?

The meaning behind the lyrics of this song, "Don't You Push Me Down" by Woody Guthrie, appears to revolve around the theme of respect and boundaries. The song seems to be addressing a playful or possibly disobedient individual who is being warned against physically pushing the singer down.

Woody Guthrie often used his music to convey social and political messages, but this particular song seems to have a more personal and playful tone. It emphasizes the importance of treating others with respect and not crossing physical boundaries, even in the context of playfulness or friendship.

To fully understand the meaning and interpretation of lyrics, it's important to consider the historical context, the artist's perspective, and any additional information or interviews that may provide further insights.