This Sad Burlesque

[Verse 1] 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 [Chorus] This sad burlesque With miserable failures Making entertainment of our fate Laughter cannot dignify or elevate This sad burlesque [Bridge] Now can they recall being young and idealistic Before wading knee-deep in hogwash and arithmetic The pitying smirk The argument runs like clockwork Will run down eventually and splutter to a stop [Verse 3] 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 [Chorus] This sad burlesque With miserable failures Making entertainment of our fate Laughter cannot dignify or elevate This sad burlesque