NEVER LOOK BEHIND
   by Harry Clifton
   Tempo: Allegretto

1. How many folks repine at Fate, And bow their heads to sorrow,
I laugh when cares upon me wait, I know they'll leave tomorrow;
And easily thro' life I glide, 'Tis always the best I fing
To carry my troubles cheerfully And never look behind.

        [Chorus]
   For what's the use of looking back Or giving way to sorrow,
   The skies today that look so black, May brighter be tomorrow;
   'Tis easy to drive dull care away, If you've the strength of mind
   To carry your troubles cheerfully, And never look behind.

2. In journeying along the road Of Life, you'll meet with many
A man who'll throw a pound away Because he's lost a penny,
And wander from the beaten track, As if he felt inclined
To look for some new trouble, Which he might have left behind.

3. Others too will try and make A fortune in a hurry,
And if they don't succeed at once, Will fret and fume and worry,
"What can't be cured must be endured" Is a maxim old and true.
"Don't care for care," then rest assured That care won't care for you.

4. In life at times we must expect To meet with "things unpleasant."
We can't recall the time that's past, But may improve the present,"
Deal fairly with your fellow man, To ev'ry one be kind
And hope for bright and better days, But never look behind.


Source: Sheet music published by White & Goullaud, 86 Tremont St., Boston. 1870.
which can be seen at The Levy Collection at Johns Hopkins University

Other information on the cover:
Popular Songs
As Sung With Immense Success By
[Picture of a teapot with small 3/4 profile of Gus Williams superimposed.]
Gus Williams,
the American star comique.

[Song series:]
1. Polly Put the Kettle On.
2. Never Look Behind.
3. Wait for the Turn of the Tide.
4. Taking My Ease.

---

Click to play