Lyrics of
The Dance

The Dance was written by Tony Arata and became famous by Garth Brooks. Arata was inspired by the notion that the pains we endure often lead us to moments of great happiness, a reflection on the value of lived experiences, regardless of their outcomes. The lyrics talk about having no regrets over past pains because they are part of the journey that leads to the joyful moments.

Lookin back on the mem'ry of the dance we shared
'neath the stars above
For a moment all the world was right how could I have known
that you'd ever say good bye

And now, I'm glad I didn't know the way it all would end
the way it all would go
Our lives, are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain
but I'd have had to miss the dance

Holding you I held everything for a moment
wasn't I the king?
If I'd only known how the king would fall. Hey who's to say
You know, I might have changed it all

And now, I'm glad I didn't know the way it all would end
the way it all would go
Our lives, are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain
but I'd have had to miss the dance
Yes my life, it's better left to chance
I could have have missed the pain,
but I'd have had to miss the dance