Fool's Paradise
Charles Brown Lyrics


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I often think of the life I've led
It's a wonder I ain't dead
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

My mother told me, father told me too
Someday, my child, it's gonna catch up with you
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

Though I've learned my lesson
Like all fools I've met
Yes, I've learned things in this world
I'd remember to my dying days

My father told me, mother said it right
Said my, child, you're ruinin' your life
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise

My mother told me, father said it right
Said, Charles Brown, you're ruinin' your life
Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Livin' in a fool's paradise





Livin' in a fool's paradise

Overall Meaning

The lyrics to Charles Brown's "Fool's Paradise" describe a life filled with reckless behavior, including heavy drinking and gambling, and the consequences that come with it. The singer reflects on his past actions and decisions, acknowledging that he's lucky he hasn't ended up dead. The repeated refrain of "Livin' in a fool's paradise" emphasizes the idea that the pleasure and excitement of living carelessly is ultimately empty and unsatisfying.


The song is also notable for the way it reflects on the role of parental guidance and advice. The singer's mother and father both warned him that his behavior would catch up with him and ruin his life, but he ignored their words of wisdom. Despite having learned his lesson, the singer still sees himself as a "fool," and it's clear that the memory of his parents' warnings stays with him.


Line by Line Meaning

I often think of the life I've led
Reflecting on the life I have lived


It's a wonder I ain't dead
Surprised that I am still alive


Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night
Engaging in excessive drinking, gambling, and late-night activities


Livin' in a fool's paradise
Leading a life of false happiness and ignorance


My mother told me, father told me too
Both of my parents warned me


Someday, my child, it's gonna catch up with you
One day, the consequences of my actions will catch up to me


Though I've learned my lesson
Despite having learned from my mistakes


Like all fools I've met
Similar to other foolish individuals I have encountered


Yes, I've learned things in this world
I have gained knowledge from my experiences


I'd remember to my dying days
Something that will stay with me until the end of my life


My father told me, mother said it right
Both my mother and father were correct in their warnings


Said my, child, you're ruinin' your life
Warned me that my actions were destroying my life


Said, Charles Brown, you're ruinin' your life
My parents called me by name, emphasizing the severity of my actions


Livin' in a fool's paradise
Continuing to lead a false and ignorant life




Contributed by Jayden E. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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