The Wings That Fly Us Home
John Denver · Portrait [1999]
In this circle we call life
A wise man seeks an answer
Burns his candle through the night
Is a jewel just a pebble
That found a way to shine
Is a hero's blood more righteous
Than a hobo's sip of wine
Did I speak to you one morning
On some distant world away?
Did you save me from an arrow?
Did you lay me in a grave?
Were we brothers on a journey?
Did you teach me how to run?
Were we broken by the waters?
Did I lie you in the sun?
I dreamed you were a prophet in a meadow
I dreamed I was a mountain in the wind
I dreamed you knelt and touched me with a flower
I awoke with this: a flower in my hand
I know that love is seeing
All the infinite in one
In the brotherhood of creatures;
Theough the Father, through the Son
The vision of your goodness
Will sustain me through the cold
Take my hand now to remember
When you find yourself alone...you're never alone
And the spirit fills the darkness of the heavens
It fills the endless yearning of the soul
It lives within a star too far to dream of
It lives within each part and is the whole
It's the fire and the wings that fly us home
The Wings That Fly Us Home
John Denver's 'The Wings That Fly Us Home' stands as a poignant example of his signature blend of folk-rock and country, characterized by acoustic guitar and harmonies that evoke themes of longing and reunion. Recorded for the 1999 compilation album 'Portrait,' the track reflects Denver's enduring ability to craft songs about the human condition, specifically the emotional journey of returning home. While the song lacks the chart-topping commercial success of his earlier hits like 'Take Me Home, Country Roads,' it remains a staple of his discography, showcasing his lyrical focus on personal connection and the comfort of familiar places. The recording captures the warmth and sincerity typical of his work, appealing to fans who appreciate his melodic storytelling and the nostalgic atmosphere he brought to his music throughout his career.