I tried hard to mend my wicked ways
I acted like a lunatic for years
Lord knows I try to be good
I'd keep my promises, if only I could
You count your blessings that I can't rely on you

And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried

Clutch your pictures of the Pope
Pray to God for love and hope
Bring the Virgin home for luck
Bolt the door, better keep it shut

I've done things I never thought I'd do
Sure, it helps to lose myself in you
A little time and I'll be all right
Come on, sugar, let's go out tonight
Forgive your trespasses and all that we've been through

Oh, I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried

Clutch your pictures of the Pope
Pray to God for love and hope
Bring the Virgin home for luck
Bolt the door, better keep it shut

That sinking feeling
When you are leaving
All I believe in
Walks out the door

I tried hard to mend my wicked ways
The damage done, there's nothing left to save

Oh, I tried
And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried

Clutch your pictures of the Pope
(Just like I told you)
Pray to God for love and hope
(Just like I warned you)
Bring the Virgin home for luck
(Just like I told you)
Bolt the door, try to keep it shut
(Just like I warned you)