Should I Laugh or Cry
ABBA · Thank You for the Music [1994]
Losing his head
Tells me I must take him seriously
Droning on the usual way
He's such a clever guy
And I wonder should I laugh or cry
He's (he's) dressed (dressed) in the striped pajamas that I bought
Trousers too short
Gives (gives) me (me) all his small philosophy
Carries on the way he does
And me I get so tired
And I wonder should I laugh or cry
High and mighty his banner flies
A fool's pride in his eyes
Standing there on his toes to grow in size
(All I see is)
All I see is a big balloon
Halfway up to the moon
He's wrapped up in a warm and safe cocoon
Of an eternal lie
So should I laugh or cry
Strange (strange) how (how) dangerously indifferent I have grown
Cold as a stone
No (no) more (more) pain where there was pain before
Far away he rambles on, I feel my throat go dry
And I wonder should I laugh or cry
High and mighty his banner flies
A fool's pride in his eyes
Standing there on his toes to grow in size
(All I see is)
All I see is a big balloon
Halfway up to the moon
He's wrapped up in a warm and safe cocoon
Of an eternal lie
So should I laugh or cry
Should I Laugh or Cry
ABBA's "Should I Laugh or Cry" stands as a poignant exploration of emotional duality, delivered with the group's signature melodic precision. Recorded for their 1994 compilation "Thank You for the Music," the track captures the band's enduring ability to blend pop sensibilities with deeper lyrical introspection. The song reflects on the complexities of human feeling, questioning whether one should respond to life's events with laughter or tears. As part of ABBA's extensive catalog, it exemplifies their commitment to crafting anthems that resonate across generations, maintaining the harmony and vocal interplay that defined their career. The recording remains a testament to their mastery of the genre, offering a timeless perspective on joy and sorrow.