history doesn't make something right

consensus is not a fact-based exercise

you're tied and bound to this self-indulgent enterprise

we call America



a brush with a star, a token of love

a name in the sand, enough is enough

a diet of air, a face on the net

a fish in your palm, your television set



once you convince yourself

the universe falls into place

you've got your ideas

and your posse of friends

you all make up rules

and the fun never ends



but still there's a problem, leaves you gasping for air

you look for some meaning, blank smiles are all that's there

and still water stales a soft summer breeze

you cling to your hopes while you drop to your knees

there's no substance!(2x)



once you convince yourself

the universe falls into place

you've got your ideas

and your posse of friends

you all make up rules

and the fun never ends



but still there's a problem, leaves you gasping for air

you look for some meaning, blank smiles are all that's there

and still water stales a soft summer breeze

you cling to your hopes while you drop to your knees



there's no substance!(2x)