The lyrics of "The House Song" by Peter, Paul & Mary describe a metaphorical house that is constantly up for sale, filled with memories and emotions. The house is described in detail, from the burning fire to the missing stairs, symbolizing the passage of time and the wear and tear of life within its walls.

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Meaning of "The House Song" by Peter, Paul & Mary


"The House Song" can be interpreted as a metaphor for life itself, with the house representing the physical and emotional spaces we inhabit over time. The repeated cycle of the house going on sale every Wednesday morning and being taken off the market in the afternoon mirrors the fleeting nature of existence and how quickly time passes. The mention of the missing stairs and the difficulty of passing through certain rooms symbolizes the challenges and obstacles we face throughout life, from childhood innocence to the burdens we carry into adulthood. The idea of paying with "the shavings off your mind" to live in the attic suggests that our experiences and memories shape who we become, and that we must confront our past in order to move forward. Overall, the lyrics of "The House Song" reflect on the complexities of life, the passage of time, and the inherent interconnectedness of human experience within the framework of a house.