Nat "King" Cole and Rahm Emanuel on the Draft

Watch out. If Rahm Emanuel is able to persuade Obama to impose compulsory national service, this song could suddenly enjoy a revival. Although written prior to Pearl Harbor, the lyrics are surprisingly subversive.

Here is an audio of Nat"King" Cole's rendition:

When skinny me went out with my honey, the boys all started to laugh; But now it's not so funny - they're all gone with the draft.

As a shiek, I can't be beat - the boys all hand me a laugh. But since I have got flat feet, I'm not gone in the draft.

I used to envy the fellows who had such fine physiques; But all they can say is"Hello" on seven-fifty a week.

When the boys get back and see how I'm doin', they'll be sorry they laughed; 'Cause one can't keep on wooing and still be gone with the draft.

When Franklyn D did sign the draft, the cats all had a chill; The boys turned pale and ceased to laugh, 'cause this is a serious bill.

They now realize that skinny me was the luckiest one of all, Who can stay at home with Minnie, while they face the cannon balls.

So boys, take it on the chin, and always wear a smile; You'll find it hard to win carryin' fifty pounds for miles.

When your year of drill is up, you get your calves discharged, You can come back home and freshen up, and run around at large. (Coda:) Gone, gone, gone, gone with the Draft, draft, draft, draft.