Rear-View Mirror

If you want your truth to be robust
There's nothing much out there to trust
The things you think you most recall
Probably weren't that way at all
'Cos memories fade (if they were ever clear!)
Tailing away in a rear-view mirror

It's basic truth; it's original sin
Histories are written by those who win
For sure, the past is a different place
And history books are a paper chase
The victors always commandeer
Beware relying on your rear-view mirror!

I guess his comment was untoward
I can't go along with Henry Ford
The way he said, "All history's bunk!"
You and me, we can call it junk
But take it on board, it's crystal clear
Accidents happen in a rear-view mirror

I forget who it was who said it to me
"Nostalgia ain't a patch on what it used to be!"
But now, at least I can say I tried
To tell you the truth (though perhaps I lied?)
I'll say it again, so we keep it clear
Never rely upon the rear-view mirror!

So I'm sorry it came as a frightful shock
That pilgrims never landed on Plymouth Rock
That Washington never touched the cherry tree
In fact, about all we can all agree
Is much out there we all hold dear
Is myth in a mythical rear-view mirror