I Know Things Now

The song 'I Know Things Now' from the musical 'Into The Woods' is a poignant exploration of innocence, experience, and the lessons learned through life's unexpected encounters. Sung by Little Red Riding Hood, the lyrics recount her journey through the woods, where she encounters the Wolf, a metaphor for danger and deception. Her mother’s advice to stay on the path and avoid delays symbolizes the protective guidance often given to the young, urging them to avoid risks and unknowns. However, the allure of the Wolf, who appears charming and enticing, leads her astray, illustrating the seductive nature of temptation and the curiosity that often drives us to explore beyond our safe boundaries.

As Little Red Riding Hood describes her experience, she reveals a mix of emotions—excitement and fear—highlighting the complex feelings that come with stepping into the unknown. The Wolf's invitation and subsequent betrayal serve as a harsh lesson about the dangers lurking beneath seemingly pleasant facades. The dark, slimy path she is led down represents the treacherous journey of being misled and the loss of innocence that comes with harsh realities. Yet, at the end of this dark path, she finds her Granny, symbolizing a return to safety and the familiar, but with newfound wisdom.

The song culminates in a reflection on the valuable lessons learned. Little Red Riding Hood now understands the importance of caution and the difference between appearances and reality. The advice to not trust in superficial symbols of safety, like a cape and a hood, and to be wary of strangers, even those who seem harmless, underscores the theme of vigilance. The realization that 'nice is different than good' encapsulates the core message: appearances can be deceiving, and true goodness is deeper than surface niceties. This journey through the woods, both literal and metaphorical, leaves her wiser but also aware of the complexities and dangers of the world.