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It's Tough To Be A God

Elton John

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It's Tough To Be A God

Lyrics by Tim Rice

From the soundtrack "The Road To El Dorado"

I hardly think I'm qualified

To come across all sanctified

I just don't cut it with the cherubim

The town's already on it's knees

Being worshipped is a breeze

I barely know the words to any hymn

Listen if we don't comply

With the locals' wishes

I can see is being sacrificed or stuffed

Let's be Gods, the perks are great

El Dorado on a plate

Local feelings should not be rebuffed

It's great to be a God

Tread where mortals have not trod

Be defied when really you're a sham

Be an object of devotion

Be the subject of psalms

It's a terrifying notion

All those prayers and thos salaams

Any normal man would bridle if he's forced to be an idol

And a normal man's exactly what I am

All the same it's pretty clear

The bastards don't keep much up here

They must have zillions under lock and key

But Gods can force then to unleash

Enough to make us nouveau riche

Beyond our wildest dreams so follow me

Can't you see I won't relax

If religious maniacs

Tell me I'm all-powerful and sublime

How can I be their belief

When I'm lying through my teeth

Why don't we just say some other time

It's great to be a God

But if you get the people's nod

Count your blessings, keep them sweet is my advice

Be nirvana be salvation

Be all things to all men

Butter up your congregation

Every Sunday score a ten

All the alternative is dire

Simply frying pan to fire

So sign on two new Gods for paradise

LanguageEnglish
Translated byAllen Morningstar

About this Song

"It's Tough to Be a God" by Elton John is a whimsical and introspective look at the complexities of power, fame, and the expectations that come with being revered. The song captures the point of view of characters who find themselves elevated to god-like status by those around them, despite their own human shortcomings and insecurities. Key themes include the superficial allure of power and the inevitable disillusionment that follows when one realizes the heavy responsibilities and moral dilemmas that come with such admiration. Poignant moments in the song highlight the internal conflict of the characters, who oscillate between enjoying the adulation and grappling with the ethical implications of their newfound status. The contrasting tone of light-heartedness and deeper existential questioning makes this song particularly engaging and thought-provoking."

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