In the midst of the laughter he cries

Pretty Paper is a good Christmas break-up song. Written by Willie Nelson during his songwriter days, it was recorded by Roy Orbison in 1963. Willie later recorded his own version.

I prefer Willie's version, which really makes you feel for the poor lonely guy on the sidewalk. Roy maybe gets too caught up in the pretty ribbons and bows (probably due to his dramatic background singers). Anyway, both are worth a spin this Christmas, especially if you've just been dumped and feel mocked by all the pretty things about.

Roy Orbison - Pretty Paper (buy album).
Willie Nelson - Pretty Paper (buy album).