Words and Music by Gene Raskin, 1962

Once upon a time there was a tavern
Where we used to raise a glass or two
Remember how we laughed away the hours
And dreamed of all the great things we would do?

Those were the days my friend
We thought they'd never end
We'd sing and dance for ever and a day
We'd live the life we choose
We'd fight and never lose
For we are young, and sure to have our way.

Then the busy years went rushing by us
We lost our starry notions on the way
If by chance I'd see you in the tavern
We'd smile at one another and we'd say

Those were the days my friend
We thought they'd never end
We'd sing and dance for ever and a day
We'd live the life we choose
We'd fight and never lose
For we are young, and sure to have our way.

Just tonight I stood before the tavern
Nothing seemed the way it used to be
In the glass I saw a strange reflection
Was that lonely fellow really me?

Those were the days my friend
We thought they'd never end
We'd sing and dance for ever and a day
We'd live the life we choose
We'd fight and never lose
For we are young, and sure to have our way.

Through the door there came familiar laughter
I saw your face and heard you call my name
Oh, my friend, we're older but no wiser,
For in our hearts the dreams are still the same

Those were the days my friend
We thought they'd never end
We'd sing and dance for ever and a day
We'd live the life we choose
We'd fight and never lose
Those were the days, oh yes those were the days.

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Saw a picture of me and the poker gang, back when I was a tender 18. I look so young. We all do. And Frank...well. My heart weeps.