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Shiftless and Ignorant

from 6​+​5​+​2 by vonHummer

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about

This is my favorite song on the album. In the midst of an ungodly long spate of unemployment, I wrote "Shiftless and Ignorant," and said it all for me. Great riff. It's sad and grim but still there's a kind of silver lining of self-acceptance in it.

And really, is it so noble to be "useful?"

lyrics

"Shiftless and Ignorant"
[vonHummer]

Out of work, out of luck and down to my very last dollar or two,
Frozen solid, I’m all college, and no knowledge, and so no clue now whatsoever to do, I’ve fooled myself into thinking I was merely restless and innocent,

A good guy given to some self indulgence and one too many bad breaks, as real as real can be with some fakery on hold,

But the truth be told, I’m…shiftless and ignorant…
shiftless and ignorant...
shiftless and ignorant…
shiftless and ignorant…

Can’t pretend anymore everything will just work itself out for the best, nothing’s up for discussion, nothing’s been offered, so I can’t settle for less, I’ve fooled myself into thinking I was compelling and not belligerent,

A penchant for pushing hot buttons, slamming emotional brakes, hiding a hungry heart of electroplated gold,

But the truth be told, I’m…shiftless and ignorant…
shiftless and ignorant...
shiftless and ignorant…
shiftless and ignorant…

I want to thank you, stranger, for telling me it isn’t true that I’m shiftless and ignorant,

But let’s close our eyes and be vigilant, just me and you,

And make merry while we may, seize what’s left of this dying day, giving the devilish details disproportionate due, If, like myself, you are shiftless and ignorant, too...

shiftless and ignorant...
shiftless and ignorant…
shiftless and ignorant…

credits

from 6​+​5​+​2, released April 16, 2002
Produced by Clark Kent for Therisno Records.
vonHummer: drum guitar and other percussion, bass drone, high guitar drone

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about

vonHummer Portland, Oregon

vonHummer is a Portland music/cable access legend whose career spanned from Fall of 2001 to Fall of 2011, during which he recorded a hundred or so songs for use in his absurdist show (and feature film) and played only a handful of concerts. Currently retired, his work shines on for the ages. Or will he someday return...? ... more

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