Machine Ballerina - Suzanne Vega

Am I an afternoon’s pastime?

A thing on a string

To be thrown and retrieved

Like a phone call received

On somebody’s birthday

To tease and delight

And then say goodnight

And then just say goodbye?

Am I a toy on a tray?

A soft piece of clay

Queen or clown for the day

Machine ballerina

Soldier of tin

Standing so loyal

While you sit so royal

Then I’m put away?

Ch: For your approval

Perusal

And your possible

Refusal

I’m amusing

I’m a puppet for your play

Am I your Mad Magazine?

Skin trampoline

Pin-up pinball machine

Your fantasy girl

Of puzzling parts

But none fits or starts

We match wits but not hearts

I’m heard but never seen?

Chorus again