Malvina Reynolds

The Bairnies Are Crying

Malvina Reynolds


The bairnies are cryin in the hall
And my singing can't be heard, 
And I love the little children
But I also love the word,
Love the word. 
And the babies have a right to cry 
And I've a right to sing, 
And you've a right to listen
So what's the answer?
Give the baby a nipple
And rock it or walk it 
Don't sock it, amuse it
Don't abuse it, 
Just make it shut up.