Everything is topsy-turvy with the world today

All the world is restless since depression came our way

So last night I went to sleep and dreamed that I had died

My weary body felt at ease and to myself I cried

Look at the flowers, they're certainly sweet

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

And look at the people all lining the street

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

There's a lot of consolation riding peacefully

Past the guy that stole my wife, I know he envies me

And look at the horses, oh boy what a treat

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

Look at the mourners, oh don't they look grand

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

That delicate music, that's played by the band

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

There's the butcher and the baker standing in their doors

I won't have to worry how to dodge them anymore

And look at the landlord just shakin' his head

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

Look at my sweetheart, she's classy in red

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

And look at her boyfriend, that big empty head

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

There's the boss I used to have, I see his ingrown face

Gee I'm glad he's worried 'cos no-one can take my place

And look at the chisellers, they're goin' to starve

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

Look at the neighbours, they keep blatherin' on

That's why it's swell to be laying out dead

And look at the kinfolks, they'll starve when I'm gone

It sure is swell to be laying out dead

I won't have to worry 'bout a job or food to eat

I won't have to worry whether shoes are on my feet

And look at the poor folks, they're beggin' for bread

Oh boy it's swell to be laying out dead