"Honestly Now (Safety's Just Danger... Out Of Place)" is a song by Harry Connick, Jr. The lyrics convey themes of standing up for oneself, the deceptive nature of the world, and the contrast between safety and danger. The song begins by emphasizing the importance of having something to stand for. Connick suggests that if one doesn't stand for something, they are likely to be knocked down and achieve nothing. He addresses a sister figure, cautioning her not to give up too easily and instead understand that it is vital to have a purpose in life. Connick then delves into the idea that people can deceive and manipulate others, playing tricks with their minds. He compares them to shadows that constantly follow behind, suggesting that they are always lurking in the background. The sister is advised to stay still and be aware of this manipulative behavior, which he relates to the nature of Malvern's Hill, a metaphorical place representing challenge and adversity. The next verse questions the nature of fate and fortune. Connick ponders whether fate follows fortune and clarity follows distortion. The sister is urged to pay attention to small details, such as fingerprints in the dust and fallen feet leaving no trace. These details symbolize the hidden aspects of life and the delicate balance between order and chaos. Connick conveys a sense of frustration as he describes seeking information at a roadside station but finding absurdity instead. He compares himself to a poet who struggles to describe an angel's face, emphasizing the inability to capture the essence of something extraordinary. This highlights the elusiveness of understanding and the limitations of human language. In the final verse, Connick reflects on being in demand and feeling secondhand. He advises the sister not to become unraveled when there is no direction to go, except through lawless travel. This suggests that sometimes one must step outside their comfort zone and embrace uncertainty in order to find meaning. The song concludes with the repetition of the phrase "safety's just danger... out of place," implying that safety and danger are not necessarily distinct, but rather intertwined and uncertain. Overall, "Honestly Now (Safety's Just Danger... Out Of Place)" explores complex themes of purpose, deception, and the blurred boundaries between safety and danger.
