don't take life so serious, son; it ain't nohow permanent.

[spatch]

LINES UPON A TRANQUIL BROW Have you ever, while pondering the ways of the morn Thought to save just a bit, just a drop in the horn To pour in the evening, or late afternoon, Or during the night, when we're shining the moon? Have you ever cried out, while counting the snow, Or watching the Tom-Tit warble "hello": Break out the cigars! This life is for squirrels! We're off to the drugstore to whistle at girls. Walt Kelly (1913-1973)

Comments

[mmcirvin.livejournal.com]

They Might Be Giants once recorded a brief musical version of that as a Dial-A-Song selection.

[spatch]

Walt Kelly himself sung it on an album along with the anthem "I Go Pogo". He starts the song in full-on airy poetic Old Philosopher mode with peaceful music and all, and when he gets to "Break out the cigars!" the band bursts out into Dixieland swing.

I still like singing I Go Pogo and, of course, Deck Us All With Boston Charlie.

[pushupstairs.livejournal.com]

I believe I recall seeing TMBG at... the Hatch shell(?) a decade or so ago and the Johns opened with "Lines Upon a Tranquil Brow" whilst the rest of the band made way to their noisemaking implements.

[sanspoof.livejournal.com]

Ah, thank you! I was wondering why I had an auditory version of this in my head.