Recorded by: Buddy Wasisname and the Other Fellers
Written by: Words: Ray Johnson Music, traditional: Arrangement: by Ray Johnson
Lyrics
This, my first tribute for I’ve loved you so long
My heart is weak, yet my voice is strong
I’ve filled you with laughter, I’ve filled you with song
But today, I feel there’s something, something so very wrong.
You see, I left not saying a word or a final goodbye
The choice was mine, and I pondered why
I tried to find fault in your turned-up floor
Complained too much about your old porch door.
And yet, it’s fitting to want to say
You’ve been my best friend since I moved away
I’ve shared our tales, songs, and the like
With folks who saw me in a worried sight
I spoke to friends who know you well
Who danced in your rooms where most did dwell
I spoke to loved ones now passed away
Who know of the spot where you once lay.
But now that I’ve returned you are no more
There’s only a memory, vision from the old truck door
You poor, tired, heart-broken old thing
What I would give to have you back once again.
How cold, still and lonely, how weary it seems
Knowing you’re not there, but only in dreams
But can you recall the lad who had to go
Who has come back to comfort you so.
Do you remember when you were empty and black
The shutters over your windows, and the door at the back
The nailing of the gate, and the fixing of the wire
A final gaze upon your rooftop, and the lock upon your door
How did you feel when I drove away
On that cold, cold November day
Did your rafters, walls, floors squeak
Were you waiting for me to return so you could speak.
Good bye dear friend, I’ve loved you so long.
My rafters, walls, floors are not that strong
You filled me with laughter, you filled me with song
God bless you old friend, so long.