A Self-Made Man

David Byrne

We're living in a dump
Trying to figure out what sex we are

Exchanging chromosomes
Trying to bargain for a better future

Well I'll trade you my potential mental
illness for your bad teeth

How 'bout trading your sexy body for a
full head of hair

Well we can't predict the future
But we're trying to do the best that we can

My cards are on the table
I'm gambling everything that I am

And some of us are hoping
To end up with a perfect life
I'll trade you everything that I got
For the chance to be someone else

And what you see is what you get
And what you get is what you choose
And what I am
What you see
Is exactly what I chose to be

And now we got a black market
A black market in designer genes

The most beautiful, most intelligent
Criminals you've ever seen

And now you're payin' top dollar
For what you used to get for free

They'll stun you with their looks
And charm you with effortless ease

They've taken everything from you
The way that you walk
The way that you smile
The sound of your voice

Don't even know
Who you are
Who are you now?
Who are you now?

I'm a self made man, I'm a self made man
I'm a self made man (I've got nothing left to give)
I'm a self made man (I've got nothing left to lose)

On down the hallway
The freaks are waiting for you
Somebody calls me
The freaks are waitin' for you
The clown will laugh in your face
Ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho
The clown will laugh in your face
Ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho
The clown will laugh in your face
Ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho ho


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A Self-Made Man Lyrics as written by David Byrne

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

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A Self-Made Man song meanings
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  • 0
    General Comment

    Thank you, David Byrne, for your courage. Man, do I feel this song right at this point in my life. ...lost and now am found. Byrne has a gift for revealing the truths we hide within ourselves. The truths so simple and obvious that we must be either brainwashed or in denial to miss on our own. I assume it comes down to the honest approach in his writing. It is an added gift that his words swim so beautifully and naturally through the brilliant waves and textures of his music. The man is a beacon for artists or anyone seeking to own their lives and nurture their talents.

    And I can't fathom why no one else has commented to date. I must get to enjoy the good music by myself.

    impetuosoulon May 09, 2010   Link
  • 0
    General Comment

    THIS SONG IS TELLING US HOW TO AVOID BEING SAD

    xERaon November 25, 2017   Link

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