PRIVATE HELL
(Paul Weller)
The Jam - 1979


Closer than close, you see yourself, a mirrored image, of what you wanted to be.
As each day goes by, a little more, you can't remember what it was you wanted anyway. 
The fingers feel the lines, they prod the space, your ageing face
The face that once was so beautiful, is still there but unrecognizable......Private Hell.

Private Hell

The man who you once loved is bald and fat, and seldom in, working late as usual.
Your interest has waned, you feel the strain, the bed springs snap on the occasions he lies upon you
Close your eyes and think of nothing but.....Private Hell.

Private Hell

Think of Emma, wonder what she's doing
Her husband Terry, and your grandchildren.
Think of Edward, who's still at college
You send him letters, which he doesn't acknowledge.
'Cause he don't care, they don't care.
'Cause they're all going through their own.....Private Hell.

Private Hell

The morning slips away in a valium haze,
And catalogues, and numerous cups of coffee.
In the afternoon the weekly food, is put in bags as you float off down the high street
The shop windows reflect, play a nameless host to a closet ghost
A picture of your fantasy, a victim of your misery and.....Private Hell 

Private Hell

Think of Emma, wonder what she's doing
Her husband Terry, and your grandchildren.
Think of Edward, who's still at college
You send him letters, which he doesn't acknowledge.
'Cause he don't care, they don't care.
'Cause they're all going through their own.....Private Hell.

Private Hell

Alone at 6 o'clock you drop a cup
You see it smash, inside you crack
You can't go on, but you sweep it up
Safe at last inside your..... Private Hell
Sanity at last inside your..... Private Hell
Sanity at last inside your..... Private Hell

Private Hell.....Private Hell ....Private Hell