Crippled Inside
John Lennon · Lennon - Signature Box [2010]
You can comb your hair and look quite cute
You can hide your face behind a smile
One thing you can't hide
is when you're crippled inside
You can wear a mask and paint your face
You can call yourself the human race
You can wear a collar and a tie
One thing you can't hide
is when you're crippled inside
Well now you know that your cat had nine lives babe
Nine lives to itself
But you only got one
And a dog's life ain't fun
Mamma take a look outside.
You can go to church and sing a hymn
Judge me by the colour of my skin
You can live a lie until you die
One thing you can't hide
is when you're crippled inside.
Crippled Inside
Crippled Inside stands as a poignant song in John Lennon's post-Beatles discography, reflecting his introspective songwriting style during the late 1970s. The track captures the emotional turbulence often found in his solo work, blending personal vulnerability with his signature melodic sensibility. While the song explores themes of inner struggle and resilience, it remains a testament to Lennon's ability to craft deeply personal narratives that resonate universally. This recording highlights his continued evolution as a solo artist, moving beyond the shadow of his former band to establish a distinct musical identity. The song's enduring appeal lies in its honest portrayal of human fragility, offering listeners a glimpse into the complex emotional landscape that defined much of Lennon's later career.