Why Can't I?

If the crisp autumn leaves
that fall swiftly from the trees
can be swept away on an October breeze...
why can't I?

If the bluebirds chirping happily
ever present in the morning sky
at any time they wanted to
could spread their wings and fly...
why can't I?

Inside of me there's a raging fire
that urges me to soar ever higher
as it threatens to consume me with it's flaming desire
and I ache to get away...

yet, when in my ear the call of freedom rings
and I begin to stretch my eager wings
like a kite, the world yanks on my strings
and again I'm forced to stay...

"Why must you pull me back to earth?!
Why must you clip my wings?!", I cry,
"What harm have I caused to thee
or crime have I committed to be
help captive here under lock and key
and left to watch the days go by?"

If I only had a single wish
i'd only want to know not more than this...
if i wish for nothing more
than to spread my wings and fly...
then tell me why can't I?..."

please tell me... why can't I?