Be a Clown

I'll remember forever:

When I was but three,

Mama, who was clever,

Remarking to me:

"Son, when you're grown up

And you want everything nice,

I've got your future sewn up

If you take this advice:"

Be a clown, be a clown!

All the world loves a clown.

Show 'em tricks, tell 'em jokes,

And you'll always stop with top folks.

Dress in huge, baggy pants

And you'll ride the road to romance.

A butcher or a baker ladies never embrace,

A barber for a beau would be a social disgrace.

They all will come to call

If you can fall on your face.

Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!

Be a clown, be a clown!

All the world loves a clown.

Be a crazy buffoon,

And the demoiselles will all swoon.

Be a crack jackanapes,

And they'll imitate you like apes.

Why be a great composer

With your rent in arrears?

Why be a major poet

And you'll owe it for years,

When crowds'll pay to giggle

If you wiggle your ears?

Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!

Be a clown, be a clown!

All the world loves a clown.

Be the poor, silly ass,

And you'll always travel first class.

Give 'em quips,

Give 'em pun

And they'll pay to say you're A-one.

If you become a farmer,

You've the weather to buck.

If you become a gambler,

You'll be stuck with your luck.

But, Jack, you'll never lack

If you can quack like a duck!

Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!

Be a clown, be a clown, be a clown!

• Artist:Gene Kelly