The Smidge
The Hold Steady Lyrics

We used to lie to each other about using computers.
In the past, we made up stories to each other about avoiding technology use.

When we couldn't get it here we used to cruise to Vancouver.
Previously, when we had trouble obtaining something, we would travel to another country to get it.

We used to lie to the people when we'd show up at parties.
Earlier, when we attended parties, we would deceive the other guests with our words and actions.

We used to pretend that we'd never met.
Before, we would act as if we had never met each other before or were strangers.

And then you'd send a signal with your cigarette.
At times, you would send me a message or indication with the smoke from your cigarette.

At first it felt like heaven.
Initially, things were perfect and idyllic.

Then it felt just like The Whole.
Subsequently, things seemed like a disaster, nothing was right or comfortable anymore.

Now when we lie to each other we do it through computers.
Currently, we communicate untruths or deceits to one another through the use of technology.

Now we never go dancing because we're not really moving.
Nowadays, we no longer go out and dance because we feel like we are not progressing or making any headway in life.

She's got a bandolero belt filled with Kamikaze shooters.
She carries a belt of drinks that are meant to get us drunk very fast.

She touches every table in a total eclipse.
She moves around the room in a dramatic style, touching every surface as she goes.

It costs an awful lot for just a little bit.
It is very expensive to get just a little bit of what we want.

At first it felt like faith.
Initially, we had a lot of hope and assurance it would work out.

Then if felt just like the void.
Later on, we felt like everything we had been working for and believing in was futile and pointless.

Now we're stranded on the southside.
Presently, we feel trapped or stuck in a difficult situation.

So sick of waiting on our boys.
We are tired of waiting for others to take action or help us out.

You can ask me not to do it but you can't contain the kids.
You can request that we stop doing something, but you cannot control our actions or what we choose to do.

We were living for the city.
We previously had a passion for urban life, living in the city.

Now we're living for the smidge.
Currently, we focus our efforts and attention on something small and insignificant.

We used to want it all.
Earlier on, we had high aspirations and ambitious goals.

Now we just want a little bit.
Currently, we have much simpler goals and desires.

Angel I didn't say goodbye.
Addressing someone named 'Angel', I didn't get a chance to say goodbye.

But I'm already gone.
Regardless, I have already left.

Come on, send me a signal.
Please give me an indication or message.

Something to show me you're alright.
Something to demonstrate that things are okay or that you are safe.

Make the sign of the cross with your cigarette.
Use the smoke from your cigarette to make the shape of a cross.

Come on, smudge a little smoke up in the night.
Come on, create a small, faded, and unclear spot of smoke against the dark sky.