Meaning of "If I Had The World To Give" by Grateful Dead

The song "If I Had The World To Give" by Grateful Dead revolves around the idea of love and the desire to give everything to the person they love. The lyrics convey a sense of selflessness, as the singer expresses their willingness to give the world itself if they had it. The repeated phrase "long as you live" emphasizes the enduring nature of their commitment, indicating that their love is not bound by time or conditions.

The lyrics touch on the idea of sacrifice, as the singer acknowledges their limitations and suggests that they may not possess material abundance. However, they offer what they do have - a song, love, and themselves as a world for the other person. The lyrics imply that love is not reliant on external possessions or grand gestures but is, instead, about the depth of emotion and connection between two individuals.

The line "But I will give what love I have to give" highlights the singer's determination to give their all, regardless of their circumstances. It speaks to the idea that love can be simple and profound without needing extravagant gestures or material wealth. The song further emphasizes this notion by contrasting it with the idea of stars or the moon, symbolizing grandeur and abundance. The singer acknowledges their limitations in possessing such grand gifts but reassures that they can provide love, which is priceless in itself.

Overall, "If I Had The World To Give" conveys a message of unconditional love and the willingness to give everything that one can, even if it may not be substantial in material terms. It suggests that love is the most valuable gift one can offer, transcending material wealth and possessions.