[Verse 1]
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

[Pre-Chorus]
And I tried, and I tried, and I tried, and I tried

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

[Verse 2]
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 alright
C'mon sugar, let's go out tonight
Forgive your trespasses and all that we've been through

[Pre-Chorus]
Oh, I tried, and I tried, and I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried, and I tried, and I tried

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

[Bridge]
That sinking feeling
When you are leaving
All I believed in
Walks out the door

[Verse 3]
I tried hard to mend my wicked ways
The damage's done, there's nothing left to save

[Pre-Chorus]
Oh, I tried
And I tried, and I tried
And I tried, and I tried, and I tried, and I tried

[Chorus]
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 down, keep it shut
(Just like I warned you)