When your casual denials turn monumental
And your manners of depression are all that pull you through
And your righteousness is so presidential
You’re a self-made martyr through and through

When all the saints refuse your collect phone calls
And return all your christmas cards
And everyone accuses you of building brick walls
You’re a self-made martyr standing guard

When your memories all run together like water color
And illusions become your daily bread
And you question happiness like a jealous lover
You’re a self-made martyr still in bed

When your night times are always waiting for the sunrise
And your mornings are black as coffee
And the telephone only rings with surprise
You’re a self-made martyr sanctimoniously

When your indignation chokes you like a halter
And recognition saunters right on by
And no one genuflects at your altar
You’re a self-made martyr wondering why

When all of your pretensions cry for recognition
And you’re dying for a crumb of sympathy
And your boasts are just an act of contrition
You’re a self-made martyr like me