Lyrics
Dead in the water
Feeling defeated or unsuccessful
It's not a paid vacation
Not a break from work but not productive
The sons and daughters
Children of government officials
Of city officials attend demonstrations
Officials' offspring participating in protests
It's hardly a sink or swim
Not a do-or-die situation
When all is well if the ticket sells
Success depends on ticket sales
Out with a whimper
Ending without a grand conclusion
It's not a blaze of glory
Not a glorious or heroic moment
You look down from your temple
Observing from a position of authority
As people endeavor to make it a story
People trying to turn events into stories
And chisel a marble word
Creating a lasting record in stone
But all is lost if it's never heard
No value if the message goes unheard
But I've got someone to make reports
Having someone monitor financial matters
That tell me how my money's spent
Managing expenses and accommodations
To book my stays and draw my blinds
Controlling the environment to avoid reality
So I can't tell what's really there
Difficulty perceiving the truth
And all I need's a great big congratulations
Desiring acknowledgment and praise
I'll keep your dreams
Willing to support dreams
You pay attention for me
Requesting attention in return
As strange as it seems
Unusual but preferable to being ignored
I'd rather dissolve than have you ignore me
Choosing dissolution over neglect
The ground may be moving fast
Life may be turbulent, but anchored
But I tied my boots to a broken mast
Tied to a damaged foundation
The difference is clear
Clear distinction between elements
You throw it in your cauldron
Adding various elements to the mix
Rust and veneer
Overlaying with decay and appearance
Dusk and dawn, Steinways and Baldwins
Contrast between day and night, piano types
You start with a simple stock
Beginning with a basic foundation
Of all the waste, and salt to taste
Using everything available, enhancing
But damn my luck, and damn these friends
Expressing frustration and regret
That keep on combing back their smiles
Friends returning with insincere smiles
I save my grace with half-assed guilt
Maintaining dignity with incomplete remorse
And lay down the quilt upon the lawn
Symbolic act of comfort on the grass
Spread my arms and soak up congratulations
Embracing acknowledgment and praise
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