I often think of the life I've led It's a wonder I ain't dead Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night Livin' in a fool's paradise My mother told me, father told me too Someday, my child, it's gonna catch up with you Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night Livin' in a fool's paradise Though I've learned my lesson Like all fools I've met Yes, I've learned things in this world I'd remember to my dying days My father told me, mother said it right Said my, child, you're ruinin' your life Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night Livin' in a fool's paradise My mother told me, father said it right Said, Charles Brown, you're ruinin' your life Drinkin' and gamblin', stayin' out all night Livin' in a fool's paradise Livin' in a fool's paradise