Lucinda

Randy Newman · 12 Songs [1990]

Met one summer evening

As the sun was going down

She was lyin' on the beach

In her graduation gown



She was wrapped up in a blanket

I could tell, she knew her way around

And as I lay down beside her

Know, she never made a sound



On down the beach

Came the beach cleaning man

Scoopin' up the papers

Flattening down the sand



Lucinda, Lucinda, Lucinda

Got to run away

That big white truck is closin' in

And we'll get wounded if we stay



Now Lucinda lies buried

'Neath the California sand

Put under

By the beach cleaning man



Lucinda, Lucinda, Lucinda

Why'd you have to go?

They sent her to high school

They sent her to low school

She just wouldn't go further

Lucinda

Randy Newman's "Lucinda" stands as a poignant centerpiece on his 1990 album *12 Songs*, showcasing his signature blend of folk-rock and social commentary. The track explores themes of lost love and the complexities of human relationships, delivered with Newman's characteristic wit and emotional depth. As part of his broader discography from the early 1990s, the song reflects his ongoing commitment to addressing personal narratives within a musical framework that resonates with listeners seeking both intimacy and broader cultural reflection. The recording captures Newman's ability to weave storytelling into his compositions, creating a work that remains relevant in discussions about his artistic evolution during this period.