Elvis Costello - Temptation LYRICS

who's this kid with this mumbo-jumbo
living in air-conditioned limbo
though they treat him just like a guest
living under threat of arrest
now that he's finally trying to make some sense
he drinks in self-defense
give me temptation

the son told contempt of authority
we'll take you anytime down to the station
you say that is all right by me
now you're living with the ghost of sophistication

now that you're shackled up to the rigmarole
with absolute control
I see you lying so wide awake
after I've given you all that you can take
so for heaven's sake
give me temptation

still you want to succeed so badly
finding your life will not be there
but you tell me you can take it or leave it
sometimes I think that you really believe it
you're just itching to break her secret laws
as you go from clause to clause
give me temptation