If Love Were All

Life is very rough and tumble for a humble teaser
One can't betray one's troubles never
Whatever occurs
Night after night, have to look bright
Whether you're well or ill
People must laugh their fill
You mustn't sleep 'til dawn comes creeping
Though I never really grumble
Life's a jumble indeed
And in my efforts to succeed
I've had to formulate a creed
I believe in doing what I can
In crying when I must
In laughing when I choose
Hey ho, if love were all
I should be lonely
I believe the more you love a girl
The more you give your trust
The more you're bound to lose
Although when shadows fall, I think if only
Somebody splendid really needed me
Someone affectionate and dear
Cares would be ended if I knew that she
Wanted to have me near
But I believe that since my life began
The most I've had is just a talent to amuse
Hey ho, if love were all
Though life buffets me obscenely
It serenely goes on
Although I question its conclusion
Illusion is gone
Frequently I put a bit by
Save for a rainy day
Nobody here can say to what indeed the years are leading
Fate may often treat me meanly
But I keenly pursue
A little mirage in the blue
Determination helps me through
For I believe that since my life began
The most I've had is just a talent to amuse
Hey ho, if love were all