Farthest Shore

David Wilcox (c) 1994

 

We were there in the woods by the water

We left our packs up against that willow tree

We dove right in, keeping just what we were born with:

(all) Our Memories, Knowledge and Dreams

As I swam away from our possessions

I imagined that they were gone forever more

And for once I was glad that all I treasured

Would still be with me as I reached other shore. So...

Let me dive into the water,

leave behind all that I've worked for

Except what I remember and believe

and when I stand on the farthest shore

I will have all I need

After the blaze burned our cabin down to ashes

Where we'd slept warm, now the sky lets in the rain

I found the strings, frets and rusted latches

But I will never hear that old guitar again

These four walls are only in my memory

Where these stone steps rise to nothing in the air

So one last look and I'm headed for the river

To wash my hands and try to say this prayer [repeat chorus]

When my time to live this life is over

I'll tip my hat when I think about that swim

And of all the things that make a life worth living

That only come to those who dive right in

Let me dive into the water

It's all I need