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lyrics

When I lived out by the river, I was sad and was alone
I felt like I was hemmed in by the river like a moat
Adelia sat right next to me and she said,"Boy, you'll be fine.
I'm here to stop the river flowing from my lover's eyes."

Though she loved me like a diamond, her kiss hurt like a snake
As she told me I'm the only one that heaven sent her way
Her food was always bitter and her warmth was always cold
Her gentle touch was not enough for this lonely wandering soul

As the daylight started dimming and Adelia hard to see
I heard the gentle beckon of the river calling me
And with consciousness now brimming I could see the other side
The fields were white with harvest and my dreams were realized

I knew the night would be lonely as she got up out of bed
And let the moonlight guide her to the axe out in the shed
She toiled all night like Jacob and she woke with calloused hands
From cutting trees and making me a chance to leave these barren sands

So I asked her, "Sweet Adelia, why did you cut down that tree?"
"I cut it down to make for you a boat so you could flee
And I packed a wanderers knick-knacks so you'd have just what you need
And I carved my name into the side to make you think of me."

Well the world, it sure was pretty, and the things I saw were quite grand
I learned some things I surely thought I would never understand
Like where I've seen true beauty, what deserved eternal stare
Was when I saw the moonlight fall across my lovers hair

The journey home is long, I forgot from where I came
I feel my soul is lost and calling out it's lover's name
But I've found some peace in hoping as the river carries me
That someday I'll return and know what it means to be free.

credits

from Men as Trees Walking, track released August 8, 2023
Ben White: vocals, guitar
Greg Perkins: acoustic guitar
Steve Pardo: clarinet, bass clarinet, cello

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Ben White Gainesville, Florida

Ben White is a folk singer and songwriter who has been creating music for over a decade. His songwriting is heavily influenced by Appalachian music and old country storytelling. Through an honest and introspective approach to music, Ben creates inviting and engaging experiences for the listener. ... more

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