I started a joke, which started the whole world crying,
but I didn't see that the joke was on me, oh no.

I started to cry, which started the whole world laughing,
oh, if I'd only seen that the joke was on me.

I looked at the skies, running my hands over my eyes,
and I fell out of bed, hurting my head from things that I'd said.

Til I finally died, which started the whole world living,
oh, if I'd only seen that the joke was on me.

I looked at the skies, running my hands over my eyes,
and I fell out of bed, hurting my head from things that I'd said.

'Til I finally died, which started the whole world living,
oh, if I'd only seen that the joke was one me.


I Started A Joke
The BeeGees

 

I saw your thread title and even before I opened it, I was "hearing" the song. I really liked the pre-disco Beegees. Thanks for the flashback, though I still don't understand the lyrics. I wonder if there's an anotated early Beegees lyrics site that tries to explain what, if anything, they were writing about.

 

I used to like to listen to Richie Haven's recording of the song. I never resonated to the lyrics much, but the tune lingers.

 

Stupid me -- I was expecting a joke to start the day with a laugh. Now I'm starting the day even more depressed. Always thought this particular song was extremely depressing. Happy Holidays.

 

and once you hear it or think of it the lyrics stick in your head FOREVER.

 

Heard it on the radio just this morning. Robin makes that song.

 

He's very good but the words make the song. An incredible piece of writing.

 

Jim,

Have you ever seen Richie Havens in concert? If you haven't you should if he is in your area. I know he does small venues now and has been in my area a few times.

 

Rob,

Maybe it is me, but the lyrics don't make much sense to me. Can you explain them?

 

I was thinking about that last night and wishing I could analyze the lyrics to make more sense. I still think it is a bit morose, but I always enjoyed the music of the Beegees and have several cds.