So much of what should never be

So much of what should never be

Portrayed as noble

A brave sacrifice

A fierce romance,

Even poverty

Chimney sweeps on rooftops

A dancing chorus

That keeps a step in time

Orphans sing for their supper

Cap in hand

Stand in line

A bowlful of gruel…

Don’t laugh at me coz I’m a fool

There is really nothing to it

A good sing-song is all you need

To cure the social-ills

How can life be so hard

There is always a Victorian

Philanthropist

To take the pain away

With a musical treat

A bedtime story, a flying car

Brush out reality

As quickly as can be

Replace the truth of suffering

With a touch of mirth

Quick wit and repartee

The noble savage

The salt of the earth

Bring on a grand finale

Invent a happy ending

Bring a tear to the eye

Have a good cry

With an encore

Of frivolous nostalgia

Leave the audience

On their feet,

Asking for more…

Please.