Laugh, Clown, Laugh - Abbey Lincoln

Life is a play and we all play a part
The lover, the dreamer, the clown
The dreamer and lover are always in tears
The clown spreads sunshine around
The life with a smile is the life worthwhile
The clown till the curtain comes down

Even though you're only make believing
Laugh, clown, laugh!
Even though something inside is grieving
Laugh, clown, laugh!
Don't let your heart grow too mellow
Just be a real punchinello, fellow

You're supposed to brighten up a place
And laugh, clown, laugh!
Paint a lot of smiles around your face
And laugh, clown, don't frown
Dressed in your best colored humor
Be a pallietto and laugh, clown, laugh!