Both Sides Now - My Version

Rows and rows of checkered squares
Rooks and bishops in the air
Pawns and knights are everywhere
I've looked at clouds that way …

But now they only block the sun
They rain and snow on everyone
So many games I could have played
But clouds got in my way

I've looked at chess from both sides now
From then and now, and still somehow
It's chess positions I recall
No longer young I am, at all …

Checks and forks and traps and pins
The mesmerizing kings and queens
Every chess game becomes so real
I've looked at chess that way …

But now it's just another game
It’s left untouched, it’s left unplayed
And if you care, don’t look for blame
Don’t give yourself away …

I've looked at chess from both sides now
From give and take, and still somehow
It was so easy, then, to play
When clouds did not get in my way

Tears and fears and feeling proud
To say "I’ll play you" right out loud
It takes some guts, it takes some pain
To find the strength to play again

And now old friends are acting strange
They shake their heads, they say I've changed
Why can’t I come play chess with them?
My other choices they condemn …

I've looked at chess from both sides now
From win and lose and still somehow
Its rules and tricks I will recall
But really, I don't know chess at all

Original lyrics by: Joni Mitchell

Rewritten by Olya K. in the state of despair 

 ***

And this pretty much sums up my current mood ...