A Good Year for the Roses Lyrics

I can hardly bear the sight of lipstick on the cigarettes there in the ashtray
Lyin' cold the way you left 'em, but at least your lips caressed them while
You packed
Or the lip-print on a half-filled cup of coffee that you poured and didn't drink
But at least you thought you wanted it, that's so much more than I can say
For me

What a good year for the roses
Many blooms still linger there
The lawn could stand another mowin'
Funny I don't even care
As you turn to walk away
As the door behind you closes
The only thing I have to say
It's been a good year for the roses

After three full years of marriage, it's the first time that you haven't
Made the bed
I guess the reason we're not talkin', there's so little left to say we
Haven't said
While a million thoughts go racin' through my mind, I find I haven't said a word
From the bedroom the familiar sound of a baby's cryin' goes unheard

What a good year for the roses
Many blooms still linger there
The lawn could stand another mowin'
Funny I don't even care
As you turn to walk away
As the door behind you closes
The only thing I have to say
It's been a good year for the roses
1 Meaning

Add your song meanings, interpretations, facts, memories & more to the community.

Add your thoughts...
Cover art for A Good Year for the Roses lyrics by Elvis Costello & the Attractions

There’s not much to say here in Elvis Costello’s cover, other than that he does a heartfelt and authentic rendering of the George Jones song. Jones is a genius and is covered by artists from every genre. Costello even injects a little country feel into his rendering, which works really well.

 
Questions and Answers

Ask specific questions and get answers to unlock more indepth meanings & facts.

Ask a question...