Everything is topsy-turvy with the world today
All the world is restless since depression came our way
So last night I went to sleep and dreamed that I had died
My weary body felt at ease and to myself I cried
Look at the flowers, they're certainly sweet
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
And look at the people all lining the street
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
There's a lot of consolation riding peacefully
Past the guy that stole my wife, I know he envies me
And look at the horses, oh boy what a treat
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
Look at the mourners, oh don't they look grand
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
That delicate music, that's played by the band
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
There's the butcher and the baker standing in their doors
I won't have to worry how to dodge them anymore
And look at the landlord just shakin' his head
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
Look at my sweetheart, she's classy in red
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
And look at her boyfriend, that big empty head
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
There's the boss I used to have, I see his ingrown face
Gee I'm glad he's worried 'cos no-one can take my place
And look at the chisellers, they're goin' to starve
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
Look at the neighbours, they keep blatherin' on
That's why it's swell to be laying out dead
And look at the kinfolks, they'll starve when I'm gone
It sure is swell to be laying out dead
I won't have to worry 'bout a job or food to eat
I won't have to worry whether shoes are on my feet
And look at the poor folks, they're beggin' for bread
Oh boy it's swell to be laying out dead