Watch Your Step (A Snake's Song)

An original song in the spirit of Randy Newman — a deceptively gentle, piano-driven tune sung from an unsettling point of view. On the surface it's a warning about a pretty trail and the dangers hiding under every rock. But listen closely to who's really doing the talking… and what that final line gives away. If you love the wry, story-driven songwriting of Randy Newman, Tom Waits, or Harry Nilsson — the kind of song that smiles at you while it tells you something sinister — this one's for you. Lyrics below. Drop a comment if you caught the twist — and let me know what other dark little story-songs you'd want to hear next. [Verse 1] The path you walk looks calm and charming But one wrong step turns it alarming Under every rock, something feral The prettiest trail can still hold peril [Chorus] Start, stop, go back, go around Leaving the path, you'll be found Quiet now — listen, watch your step Do you hear that rattling sound [Verse 2] The things you see look nice and bright But reach for one, you'll have a fright The prettiest ones can be mean Some can slither away unseen [Chorus] Start, stop, go back, go around Leaving the path, you'll be found Quiet now — listen, watch your step Do you hear that rattling sound [Verse 3] They'll fix their gaze with a steady eye And mark you well as you walk by A thing so feared that can beguile So enticing, and so reviled [Bridge] I've watched you walk so bold I've dealt with young and old Stay close, don't drift, don't roam — You might not make it home [Verse 4] So watch the ones that stalk and wait You'll find their trick, only too late They let you pass, they let you near — And strike the day you forget to fear [Final Chorus] Start, stop, go back, go around Leaving the path, you'll be found Quiet now — listen, watch your step But you won't hear a rattling sound