So Pretty
We were learning in our school today
All about a country far away,
Full of lovely temples painted gold,
Modern cities, jungles ages old.
And the people are so pretty there,
Shining smiles, and shiny eyes and hair . . .
Then I had to ask my teacher why
War was making all those people die.
They're so pretty, so pretty.
Then my teacher said, and took my hand,
"They must die for peace, you understand."
But they're so pretty, so pretty.
I don't understand.
Song by Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by Comden & Green
This is a Vietnam-era protest song, premiered by Barbra Streisand at a "Broadway for Peace" concert.
You can listen to it here on Lala.com.