(the) Fall Of The World's Own Optimist Lyrics - Elvis Costello

(Elvis Costello/Aimee Mann) 

There's no charity in you 

And that surprises me 

I guess I thought you were a golden idol 

'Cause I called you majesty 

On the balustrade 

You watched me hunt for tips I was obliged to pick up 

From the passing trade 

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CHORUS: 

Hey, kids--look at this 

It's the fall of the world's own optimist 

I could get back up if you insist 

But you'll have to ask politely 

'Cause the eggshells I've been treading 

Couldn't spare me a beheading 

And I'll know I had it coming 

From a Caesar who was only slumming 

Hey, kids--look at this 

It's the fall of the world's own optimist 

Well, I could have objections 

Which you could override 

But what's the point--we're only flogging the horse 

When the horseman has up and died 

Once I testified 

And swore I'd never leave a stone unturned-- 

I bet you're really glad that I lied 

Photos 

CHORUS 

Hey, kids--look at this 

It's the fall of the world's own optimist 

I could get back up if you insist 

But you'll have to ask politely 

Yes, you'll have to ask politely 

Yes, you'll have to ask