I should be writing my novel
In March it's supposed to be done
Instead I'm in Miami
Sitting in the sun
Hand me the suntan lotion
Bring me a lemon fizz
Don't bring me the paper, babes
Don't tell me what time it is
I could've been a contender
Babes, I could've been someone
Instead I'm in Miami
Just another handsome bum
All my youthful promise, babes
Where did it go?
I left it in Minnesota
In the ice and snow
Hand me the suntan lotion
Bring me a tonic and gin
Take away my cellphone
Don't tell me what state I'm in
I could've been a writer
Babes, I could've been a big deal
Instead I went to Miami
To see how good it feels
I used to be a Calvinist
I worked a 12-hour day
Never thought I could sit in the sun
But so far I'm doing okay.
Never thought I could sit and do nothing
But that's what I've done today
Never thought I could sit in the sun
And look out at the bay.
Think I'll sign up for one more week
If you want to stay.
© Garrison Keillor 2003