Favor of a Dance (Rough Mix, Lyrics) (Patreon)

"Shindig" is a fantastic episode of Firefly. However, I never realize how well-written it was until Mikey Mason and I recorded the latest episode of our songwriting podcast In the 'Verse. 

The episode is about respectability, pageantry, and the games we play. It's about following and breaking the rules.

"Favor of a Dance" is about a man who doesn't want to play the game. He tries, but he's prevented from dancing with a woman he respects. So he fights for her favor and wins. However, he realizes this is not a game he enjoys. He just wants to dance, by his own rules.

Favor of the Dance Lyrics

This is the social event of the seasonIt's not my game, but you give me reasonYou dance with kindness a-round the floorWhile your escort seems ready for war

His hand wraps tight round your arm.Your dignity he’s doing harmI see you flinch. To restore your calm,I will break the rules with all of my charm

Give me the favor of a danceGive me the favor of a danceShe spoke of your generosityGiven that, then won’t you pleaseGive me the favor of a dance 

He lets us dance though it’s not my game.Then cuts it short and puts you to shameLay into him and we dance on the floor.We draw our swords, ready for war. 

Give me the favor of a danceGive me the favor of a danceYou spoke with such animosity  Given that, then won’t you pleaseGive me the favor of a dance 

I leave him lying in a puddle of shameIt might be fun but this ain’t my gameThe cruel rules of your societyAre different than those for me

Give me the favor of a danceGive me the favor of a danceWe prefer generosityGiven that, then won’t you pleaseGive me the favor of a dance