Ian Anderson - Old Black Cat lyrics

My old black cat passed away this morning

He never knew what a hard day was.

Woke up late and danced on tin roofs.

If questioned “Why?” – answered, “Just because.”

He never spoke much, preferring silence:

eight lost lives was all he had.

Occasionally sneaked some Sunday dinner.

He wasn’t good and he wasn’t bad.

My old black cat wasn’t much of a looker.

You could pass him by – just a quiet shadow.

Got pushed around by all the other little guys.

Didn’t seem to mind much – just the way life goes.

Padded about in furry slippers.

Didn’t make any special friends.

He played it cool with wide-eyed innocence,

Receiving gladly what the good Lord sends.

Forgot to give his Christmas present.

Black cat collar, nice and new.

Thought he’d make it through to New Year.

I guess this song will have to do.

My old black cat……….

Old black cat…………