Live versions of this song were already around in late 2014, when Frank Started to try out some of the songs to appear on his album Positive Songs for Negative People. Just like Little Aphrodite, this song didn’t make it into the album and was so released with the Mittens EP.
[Verse 1]
Wake up every morning and feel out of place
Put on your face
Once more with resignation
The world won't appreciate greatness today
But there's bills to be paid
So you stumble to the station
[Pre-Chorus 1]
You're wearing your most imperceptible frown
These people are adjectives to your proper noun
As you wander the streets of this phoney old town
It's wearing you down
[Chorus]
Yet there you are
Like a dream in your favourite blue dress
Your hair is a mess, but nevertheless:
Cleopatra in Brooklyn
[Verse 2]
You casually shed poetry like your clothes
In neat little rows
On the floor of my hotel room
You never wanted to be a princess
Said you'd accept less
Holding court holed up in your bedroom
[Pre-Chorus 2]
I'd say I was Anthony begging at your door
But I know that you'd laugh and just ask me what for
Then you'd roll your eyes as I fell the floor
To swear that I'm yours
[Chorus]
[Bridge]
You wait by the Brooklyn Bridge for your king to return (x3)
Then retire to your palace on Smith Street as the old Rome burns
[Chorus]
[Outro]
Yes, there you are
A glittering star
You couldn't care less who you impress
You're my thrift store princess
Cleopatra in Brooklyn
I'll come find you when your fortunes fail you
I'll die with you when the gods desert you
Cleopatra in Brooklyn was written by Frank Turner.