Strawbs Beat The Retreat lyrics

The rat race was over
Before it was won
And I started walking
When I could have run

Like a child who missed out
On a Sunday school treat
Now you know how I feel when
I beat the retreat

I slept like a soldier
My gun at my side
My uniform folded
I wore it with pride

I could not rest contented
Till I joined the elite
Now you know how I feel when
I beat the retreat

This winter wind brings

Such a chill to my bones
Erect in my memory
A small cairn of stones

So that those from afar
Can see where our paths meet
Now you know how I feel when
I beat the retreat

The last post is sounding
Now it's time to be gone
There's no further reason
For singing this song

The battle is over
I accept the defeat
Now you know how I feel when
I beat the retreat