Full Lyrics
Stay awake, don't rest your head
Don't lie down upon your bed
While the moon drifts in the skies
Stay awake, don't close your eyes
Though the world is fast asleep
Though your pillow's soft and deep
You're not sleepy as you seem
Stay awake, don't nod and dream
Stay awake, don't nod and dream
About This Song
"Stay Awake" was written by the legendary Sherman Brothers (Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman) for the 1964 film Mary Poppins. In the film, Mary Poppins sings this clever lullaby to Jane and Michael Banks.
The song uses reverse psychology brilliantly — by telling the children to stay awake and not close their eyes, Mary Poppins actually lulls them to sleep. It's a clever trick that many parents have adopted at bedtime!
The gentle, dreamy melody contrasts humorously with the lyrics that insist the children shouldn't sleep. This ironic approach makes it both an effective lullaby and a charming, witty song that children and parents enjoy together.