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Maybe we can make a deal (Fast Cars, Pt 3)

When you're a man and pull your hair behind your ears
and tie it in a ponytail
that's called a compromise

when you want talk
when it's over
they call that bargaining
which is part of grieving

when you look people in the eye
when you're walking
that's bold
or daring
no matter how you are appealing

when you ask yourself
what makes a metal
it's the ability
to be flattened into sheets
and drawn into wires
as every jeweller knows

when you are walking in the wildflowers
try not to remember
you don't find roses growing on stalks of clover
however much you like the tune

when you wear slippers
don't trip on the frills
or be caught sporting mutton sleeves
or poodle wrists
or mules

and when you drive
don't forget
to make a deal
I can't remember
which is ritzier
Buick or Chevrolet
but Cadillac is the best
and everything else is bargaining
to get more for your money
than the next guy paid
stand your ground
make space for yourself
remember you've got nothing to prove
take your place
and fake it 'til you make it

don't hunch
or apologize
even if you can't make a decision
make racing changes
until the engine makes you shift.

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