From the recording Good Old Days
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
Under the porchlight pooling on the walk,
I count the crickets, listen to the clock.
One cup in the window, one chair by the fire,
One gentle shadow the moon admires.
[Verse 2]
Boots by the doorway, polished like the stars,
Letters by the lamp wrapped up in scars.
I’m just a stray with a wintered coat,
Learning your footsteps like a simple note.
[Bridge]
If trains must call you far away,
let me keep your silence brave.
When night drills beat upon your heart,
I’ll curl beside them until they part.
[Verse 3]
Give me a name and a place to keep,
I’ll guard your dreams while the bugles sleep.
When morning mists the windowpane,
I’ll wag the dawn through your open gate.
[Chorus]
Let me be your porchlight serenade,
a warm small hymn when the war drums fade.
At ease by your boots, I’ll learn your parade--
and answer your quiet with the love I’ve saved.