The song is a lament of a person, seen by the outside world as a jester and a comedian especially when they fail, who inwardly feels tremendous pain. The person ultimately accepts their fate, noting that someone is in the same position in every society. In the musical, the song—sung by the lead, Cocky (played by Newley in the original American production)—leads into the Act One closer, "
Who Can I Turn To?"
Recordings
Anthony Newley performed the song on the original cast recording.
Sammy Davis Jr., on the album, Sammy's Back On Broadway 1965
Gina Riley performed and recorded her version as the opening only theme to the Australian
sitcom, Kath & Kim. This full recording also appeared on the 2004 soundtrack album, Kath & Kim's Party Tape.
References
^The Ultimate Broadway Fake Book (Songbook) 1458489515
Hal Leonard Corp. - 1984 - ... Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley PRODUCER: David Merrick with Bernard Delfont DIRECTOR: Anthony Newley ... The show's rich score contained 14 songs, many of which became standards including “The Joker,” “Feeling Good,” ...