The Passing Show Lyrics - Ian Dury

When we were simple and naïve 

We wore our feelings on our sleeve 

As we've grown jaded and corrupt 

Our manner's guarded and abrupt 

Oh, how we'd smile most readily 

Whilst ploughing on unsteadily 

Now frowns are etched upon our face 

We can no longer stand the pace 

Although we've got to go, with the passing show 

It doesn't ever mean, we haven't made the scene 

And what we think we know, to what is really so 

Is but a smithereen, of what it might have been 

We'd sing in gay abandon then 

We'd get it wrong and try again 

As here we brood with doubts assailed 

Nothing ventured, nothing failed 

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When life itself can chart the course 

Then life's the product we endorse 

When circumstances tell of death 

We keep our counsel, save our breath 

Although we've got to go, with the passing show 

It doesn't ever mean, we haven't made the scene 

And what we think we know, to what is really so 

Is but a smithereen, of what it might have been 

Our laughter rang around the world 

When we were happy boys and girls 

As now we baulk and hesitate 

Encumbrance comes to those who wait 

But when we're torn from mortal coil 

We leave behind a counterfoil 

It's what we did and who we knew 

And that's what makes this story true 

Photos 

Although we've got to go, with the passing show 

It doesn't ever mean, we haven't made the scene 

And what we think we know, to what is really so 

Is but a smithereen, of what it might have been 

Although we've got to go, with the passing show 

It doesn't ever mean, we haven't made the scene 

And what we think we know, to what is really so 

Is but a smithereen, of what it might have been