To his son a father said
in a loving tone:
follow the rules
but make up your own.
Be damn careful where you tread,
you're only flesh and bone.
Follow the rules
but make up your own.
Strive to always get ahead,
leave no untumed stone -
follow the rules
but make up your own.
When you're thin and underfed
call me on the phone.
Follow the rules
but make up your own.
And if you wish that you were dead
and hate that devil loan
follow the rules
but make up your own.
If your books are in the red
and you moan and groan:
follow the rules
but make up your own.
Now remember what I've said
when you're out on your own:
just follow those rules
but make up your own.