What did I clearly say
Children should listen

No, no, please
What were you not to do
Children must see
No

And learn

Why could you not obey
Children should listen
What have I been to you
What would you have me be
Handsome like a Prince

Ah, but I am old
I am ugly
I embarrass you
No

You are ashamed of me
No

You are ashamed
You don't understand

I am no longer a child, I wish to see the world

Don't you know what's out there in the world
Someone has to shield you from the world
Stay with me

Princes wait there in the world, it's true
Princes, yes, but wolves and humans, too
Stay at home
I am home

Who out there could love you more than I
What out there that I cannot supply
Stay with me

Stay with me
The world is dark and wild
Stay a child while you can be a child
With me

Copyright: Songtrust Ave, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Writer(s): Stephen Sondheim