Once I had my poems up on the schoolroom wall
My teacher told my parents that I had something special.
Then she sent my essay to the Iowa Review
I didn't win a prize but got an honorable mention
Almost great, almost great
After I left college, dropped out after two years
I left to to NY city for my musical career
I know it would have happened but the band they got real jobs
They all got married, moved back to Omaha
Almost great, almost great
If I worked a little harder
I could of been a starter
Almost great
Once I had a true love. A poet just like me
Who actually has a book out now. A NYT best seller
I don't think it's very good. I think I could do better
If only I could get myself together
Almost great, almost great
If I worked a little harder
I could of been a starter
Almost great.
Almost great. I hope it's not too late
Guess I'll give it one more try
Before I say goodbye
Almost great
(Everybody sings) Almost great