Inspiration From The Greatness of Others

We are social creatures by nature, even though many of us often prefer and seek out solitude. Because of that, we are at some level influenced by the words and actions of those around us.

It seems to me it is no different for those of us who write, whether we be poets, novelists, or songwriters. We read or listen to the works of others, and whether consciously or unconsciously, we pick up things and ideas from those other works. The challenge is not to absorb so much that your own work becomes a carbon copy of theirs.

In the case of today’s entry, I was inspired by two great songwriters, Gordon Lightfoot and Bob Dylan. Lightfoot’s first big song, “Early Morning Rain” (a 1965 hit for Peter, Paul and Mary) was the primary influence, though Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” was also floating in and out of my mind.

The working melody is a variation on Lightfoot’s melody for “Early Morning Rain” (a song which has itself changed slightly in melody depending on the arrangement). The theme is closer to that of Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright,” though in my lyric she is not really the reason for his leaving. The title, though, could probably use some work.

The Road

When the sun comes up tomorrow, I guess I’ll be traveling on
There’s so much I should be doing, and it’s time that I was gone
I’ve enjoyed the nights we’ve had, but I never promised I would stay
And when the sun comes up tomorrow, that’s when I’ll be on my way

But we still have tonight, one more night beneath the stars
No matter what may come this night will still be ours
Let me hold you in my arms one more time before I go
Not quite sure where I am bound, but the road is all I know

When the bus pulls out tomorrow you’ll be but a memory
Though I’m leaving you behind, you will always be with me
I know that it’s hurting you knowing I’ll walk out that door
But you know that I can’t stay so please don’t ask me anymore

But we still have tonight, one more night beneath the stars
No matter what may come this night will still be ours
Let me hold you in my arms one more time before I go
Not quite sure where I am bound, but the road is all I know

Not quite sure where I am bound, but the road is all I know

© 2017 Walt Huntsman. All rights reserved.

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