Apology

Words and Music by: Gordon Lightfoot
Arranged and adapted by:
Publisher:  

Recorded by Gordon Lightfoot UAS6714, BGO CD166,  BCD15691

Lyrics:

I remember everything
I've learned about survival
I've walked with fools and kings
And I've even read the Bible

There I came upon some lines
Givin' me direction
Gather not your gold on earth
Your kingdom is in heaven

But I chose to live instead
Inside the shell they gave me
'Til in spite of everything
Good fortune came to find me

I tried my best to run away
But I could not avoid the feelin'
Soon I was reelin' on my feet
I made a grab at anything
The earth was gone and I was on
A vicious circle then

After I'd gone and let myself surrender
I didn't want to die at all
I thought I'd live forever

Then she gave me everything
A king could never borrow
But I twisted all her gifts
Her wisdom was my sorrow

So I left her cryin'
And roamed across the river
The angels offered me their hands
But I could not forget her

So I came to where she was
By river, road and reason
I slept beneath her window
In the moonlight summer season

But I could not go inside
I heard the sound of laughter
And the rustle of her hair upon his skin
I made a grab at anything
The earth was gone and I was on
A vicious circle then

After I'd gone to cry down my sorrow
I didn't want to live no more
Nor face the bright tomorrow

Then I remembered everything
I've learned about survival
Havin' walked with fools and kings
I've even read the Bible

I remember all those lines
Givin' me direction
Gather not your gold on earth
It will not pass inspection

And still I think when I'm alone
Away from all night splendor
If gold could buy one night with her
I wish I had some to send her