I used to be desperate to be able to sit at a piano and sing Shipbuilding after the manner of Robert Wyatt. It seemed like it would be so cool - like Chet Baker but with added political commitment. But then, after hearing Costello doing it himself I realised how much the fragility of Mr Wyatt's rendition masks the obviousness of the lyrical conceit. I'd be embarrassed to sing it now, however beautiful the tune, it's only a few steps up from War Is Stupid or People Are People.
So, on this mythical occasion when gifted the talent to perform a song I think I'd forgo the significance and sing something useful.
