They Just Keep Moving the Line is an original song first featured in The Fallout, the second episode of the second season of Smash. Being an original song, it was written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. The version released as a single features Megan Hilty (Ivy Lynn) on lead vocals.
In Bombshell, the song sees Marilyn, with newfound confidence in her acting skills, going to England to film The Prince & The Showgirl opposite Laurence Olivier. Unfortunately, Olivier treats her like a "no talent" and she admits to the apprentice hired to look after her that she wonders if the auditioning and always having to prove herself will ever stop.
Lyrics[]
Marilyn:
The field was bright with clover
I saw the finish sign
I started as a rover
And then victory was mine
I thought the race was over
But they just keep moving the line
They cheered at my persistence
But prayed for my decline
The path of least resistance
Led to Hollywood and Vine
I tried to go the distance
But they just keep moving the line
I jumped all of the hurdles
To break out of the pack
I started on the outside
And then hit the inside track
I left the other fillies
Back at the starting gate
Was ready, on my mark, I got to set
To hurry up and wait
So talent and ambition
Won me a chance to shine
I aced the big audition
But it's rainin' on Cloud Nine
Can't beat the competition
'Cause they just keep moving the line
I handled every corner
Each bump along the track
And when I saw the ribbon, well
There was no turning back
I won the photo finish
I posed for all the men
But before I got my trophy
Well, the race began again
So I've made friends with rejection
I've straightened up my spine!
I'll change each imperfection
Till it's time to drink the wine!
I'd toast to resurrection
But they just keep moving the line!
Please give me some direction,
'Cause they just keep moving the line!
Later Reprisals[]
- Karen Cartwright as Marilyn Monore (The Dramaturg)
- Ivy Lynn as Marilyn Monroe (The Dramaturg)
- This is a clip from the Marilyn: The Musical workshop, although the song was not performed in the season one episode.