Words and music by James Livingston. I wrote this “break-up poem” ten years ago as a song, as I was getting divorced. Some of you have seen or heard it before. I capo it at the 5th or 6th fret because my voice works better there, but you can play it as you like.
D C G
These restless years have done their damage
Em C D
Etched by your tears, they line your face.
D C G
Your deepest fears have held you ransom,
G C D
Pay for this prisoner, he’s your slave,
Em C G
Pray for this prisoner, end these days.
D C G
You want to catch that fallin’ sparrow,
Em C D
You want to put away your knife
D C G
What will you say when you must answer?
G C D
Pay for this prisoner, end this strife,
Em C G
Pray for this prisoner, spare his life
[CHORUS}
C G
Well you have seen what will come after,
C D
You have seen how much it takes
C G
Is it the place they call hereafter?
C D
Is it the place where your heart breaks?
D C G
Your life is hangin’ in the balance,
Em C D
Because the future’s come and gone
D C G
You cannot choose to be his captive:
G C D
Pay for this prisoner, head for home,
Em C G
Pray that this prisoner stays alone.
[Repeat chorus and verse 1]
