The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #59832   Message #955764
Posted By: Joe_F
19-May-03 - 06:57 PM
Thread Name: Origins: I Don't Mind Failing (Malvina Reynolds)
Subject: DTADD: I Don't Mind Failing (Malvina Reynolds)
It's by Malvina Reynolds, and is in _The Muse of Parker Street_ (Oak, 1967).

I don't mind failing in this world.
I don't mind failing in this world.
Don't mind wearing the ragged britches
'Cause those who succeed are the sons of bitches.
I don't mind failing in this world.

Likewise:

I'll stay down with the raggedy crew,
'Cause getting up there means stepping on you.

Somebody else's definition
Isn't going to measure my soul's condition.

Never mind the custom suits,
The gentle hearts wear the dusty boots, so

Some people ride in a car so fine
While others walk on a picket line, so

(Repeat first stanza.)

I wish she had omitted the fourth stanza, which contains the worst mixed metaphor since "the crowned heads of Europe were trembling in their shoes". In its place I suggest

Some folks wear $50 pants --
They wipe their hands when they get the chance.