VERSE

search
song-cover

Unsung Psalm

Tracy Chapman

song-cover

Unsung Psalm

Unsung Psalm

There would be psalms sung by a choir

I would have a white robe a halo newly acquired

I'd be at peace and I'd have no desire

If I'd lived right

There would be cherubs with tiny harps arrows and bows

I'd have a halo and a flowing white robe

I'd be enfolded by a celestial light

If I'd lived right

But I'm feeling hot and bothered under the collar

I feel the sweat breaking out on my brow

I feel the heat and I know it's the passion

The love I can't disavow

If this is a dream wake me up now

If this is a movie let's edit these scenes out

It would be a PG instead of an X-rated life

If I'd lived right

Some would call me a cheat call me a liar

Say that I've been defeated by the basest desired

Yes I have strayed and succumbed to my vices

But I tried to live right

But I have no regrets no guilt in my heart

I only feel sadness for any pain that I've caused

I guess I wouldn't bother to worry at all

If I'd lived right

Do you live by the book do you play by the rules?

Do you care what is thought by others about you?

If this day is all that is promised to you

Do you life for the future the present the past?

If there is one thing I know I know I will die

If anyone cares some stranger my critique my life

I may be revered or defamed and decried

But I tried to live right

There would be psalms sung by a choir

I would have a white robe a halo newly acquired

I'd be at peace and I'd have no desire

If I'd lived right

LanguageEnglish
Translated byAllen Morningstar

About this Song

Tracy Chapman's song Unsung Psalm is a reflective and deeply introspective piece that explores themes of regret, memory, and the passage of time. The song delves into the personal introspection one undergoes while looking back on their life, contemplating the decisions made and the paths not taken. She navigates through the emotions associated with missed opportunities, lost love, and the realization of one's mortality. A particularly poignant moment in the song is the recurring idea of an unsung psalm, symbolizing the unspoken or uncelebrated aspects of one’s life and experiences. The song's lyrical journey offers a heartfelt narrative that connects with listeners on a profound emotional level.

Read more

More like Telling Stories

Verse Lyrics is where you learn new languages the rock star way with song lyrics.

© Verse Engineering 2025