But Not For Me

a 1930 popular song
words by Ira Gershwin
music by George Gershwin


The sheet music:


Accompaniment track:


Lyrics

Old Man Sunshine listen, you
Never tell me, “Dreams come ture”
Just try it and I’ll start a riot
Beatrice Fairfax, don’t you dare
Ever tell me he will care
I’m certain it’s the final curtain
I never want to hear from any cheerful Pollyannas
Who tell you fate, supplies a mate
It’s all bananas

Chorus
They’re writing songs of love
But not for me
A lucky star’s above
But not for me
With love to lead the way
I’ve found more clouds of gray
Than any Russian play could guarantee
I was a fool to fall and get that way
Heigh-ho! Alas! and also, lack-a-day
Although I can’t dismiss
The mem’ry of his kiss
I guess he’s not for me

Chorus
He’s knocking on a door
But not for me
He’ll plan a two by four
But not for me
I know that love’s a game
I’m puzzled, just the same
Was I the moth or flame?
I’m all at sea
It all began so well, but what an end
This is the time a feller needs a friend
When every happy plot
Ends with the marriage knot
And there’s no knot for me


Sung here by Fred Feild: