This Sad Burlesque Lyrics - Elvis Costello

I write in hope by the time you get this letter 

We may live to see a change for the better 

Or are we so devoted to these wretched selfish motives? 

When the cold facts and figures all add up 

They cannot contradict this sad burlesque 

This sad burlesque 

With miserable failures making entertainment of our fate 

Laughter cannot dignify or elevate this sad burlesque 

Now can they recall being young and idealistic 

Before wading knee-deep in hogwash and arithmetic? 

The pitying smirk 

The argument that runs like clockwork 

Will run down eventually and splutter to a stop 

P.S. Well, by now you know the worst of it 

And we've heard all the alibis that they've rehearsed 

The smug predictions 

If it's not a contradiction 

Please have faith in human nature 

And have mercy on the creatures in this sad burlesque 

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This sad burlesque 

With miserable failures making entertainment of our fate 

Laughter cannot dignify or elevate this sad burlesque 

Photos