(Intro) [Intro — sparse guitar, bass and drums] [Verse 1] I heard a story on the radio, I didn't understand it, but I know. I read a headline, maybe two, So now I've got a theory for you. It's complicated, that's what they say, But I've got an answer anyway. The facts are changing, people lie, But I'm pretty sure I know just why. [Chorus] Message in a prattle, Message in a prattle, Talking, talking all the time, Making mountains out of mime. Message in a prattle, Floating on the foam, I stumbled on the truth one night— Then talked my way back home. [Verse 2] I know about the economy, And ancient Rome and AI. I know exactly what the scientists Were trying to imply. I heard it from a fellow Who was standing next to one, Who once had read an article About what they'd done. So don't confuse me with the evidence, I've got common sense instead— And if you disagree with me, You're probably misled. [Chorus] Message in a prattle, Message in a prattle, Everybody's got a view, I've got several—maybe two. Message in a prattle, Drifting out to sea, I accidentally said something true— But it sounded wrong to me. [Bridge — building] Maybe money makes the rules, Maybe power makes the news, Maybe people tell themselves The stories they can use... Wait a minute... That's actually quite profound. [Drums crash] [Verse 3] I know the answer to the question That nobody has asked, I'll explain it for an hour If you give me half a chance. I'll wander through the evidence, I'll speculate and guess, I'll confidently conclude I know a little less. But somewhere in the babble, When the logic starts to crack, I'll accidentally tell the truth— Then immediately take it back. [Final Chorus] Message in a prattle, Message in a prattle, Talking just to hear my voice, Calling every guess a choice. Message in a prattle, Floating out of sight, I finally found the answer— But explained it out of spite! [Outro — spoken over fading guitar] And actually, when you think about it... [pause] ...which reminds me— There's something else you really need to know... (fade to final coda)
