Thirsty Boots
John Denver · Gold: Greatest Hits [2008]
You've been sleeping in the rain
From dirty words and muddy cells
Your clothes are soiled and stained
But the dirty words and the muddy cells
Will soon be judged insane
So only stop and rest yourself
And you'll be off again
Oh, take off your thirsty boots
And stay for awhile
Your feet are hot and weary
From a dusty mile
And maybe I can make you laugh
And maybe I can try
I'm looking for the evening
And the morning in your eyes
Then tell me of the ones you saw
As far as you could see
Across the plains from field to town
Marching to be free
And of the rusted prison gates
That tumble by debris
Like laughing children
one by one
They look like you and me
So, take off your thirsty boots
And stay for awhile
Your feet are hot and weary
From a dusty mile
And maybe I can make you laugh
And maybe I can try
Looking for the evening
And the morning in your eyes
I know you are no stranger
Down crooked rainbow trails
From dancing cliffhead Scattered sills
To slander shackled jails
Where the voices drift up from below
His walls are being scaled
Yes all of this, and more my friend
Your song shall not be failed
Oh, take off your thirsty boots
And stay for awhile
Your feet are hot and weary
From a dusty mile
And maybe I can make you laugh
And maybe I can try
Looking for the evening
And the morning in your eyes
Oh, take off your thirsty boots
And stay for awhile
Your feet are hot and weary
From a dusty mile
And maybe I can make you laugh
And maybe I can try
Looking for the evening
And the morning in your eyes
Thirsty Boots
Thirsty Boots stands as one of John Denver's most enduring recordings, capturing the singer-songwriter's signature blend of folk and country influences. Released during a prolific period in his career, the track showcases Denver's ability to craft relatable narratives about the American West and the transient nature of life on the road. The song's upbeat tempo and acoustic guitar-driven arrangement reflect the optimistic tone that defined much of his work in the 1970s. As a staple of his discography, it remains a favorite among fans who appreciate his storytelling prowess and melodic sensibilities. The recording highlights Denver's connection to nature and the open landscape, themes that permeate his broader body of work. Its inclusion on various greatest hits collections underscores its lasting appeal and commercial success within the folk-rock genre.