The Habit of the Broken Heart by Van der Graaf Generator Lyrics

[Instrumental Intro]

[Verse 1]
Oh, the Sisters of Blindness
From the Convent of the Broken Heart
They want to smother it with kindness
They want to tear it all apart
And there's a rock of sterile virtu'
In the centre of the bay...
I'm so sorry he hurt you
But don't throw yourself away

[Instrumental Break]

[Verse 2]
You only wanted to have some fun
You only wanted to try it;
You only wanted to be someone
But everybody denies it
Why's it so hard to make you listen?
Don't go and change your name...
Learning to lose can be the start of winning the game
You're so special, such sadness seems a shame
[Bridge 1]
I know that you've got a service to catch
I wouldn't want you to miss it
But there's something so mismatched
Some motive inexplicit...
Is it the call of the Convent?

[Instrumental]

[Verse 3]
You only wanted to find someone
Or something more than pleasure;
Penitence for the Chosen One
You can indulge at leisure -
By the light of the sinking sun
Don't turn your back on the treasure
Whether or not you want to face it, you're a beautiful girl
And your lay-lady laughter has a right to be heard;
But what can I give you if you've already got the Word?

[Outro]
Don't go
Don't start
Don't take on
The Habit of the Broken Heart