Pen and Paper
Faron Young · Pen and Paper [Mercury] [1965]
(Pen and paper won't you tell me what to write)
Pen and paper won't you tell me what to write
I don't know I can't think and I'd been here half a night
I don't want to hurt her but I love somebody new
Pen and paper help me tell her we're through.
Shall I say dear used to be forget me
Or shall I say dear broken heart we'll have to part
When she reads about my new love will she cry?
Oh pen, (pen) paper, (paper) is that a way to say goodbye?...
Pen and Paper
Faron Young's "Pen and Paper" stands as a defining track from his 1965 Mercury Records album of the same name. A staple of the country genre, the song showcases Young's signature emotive vocal delivery and his ability to convey deep sentiment through straightforward storytelling. Released during a period where Young was solidifying his reputation as a master of the heartbreak ballad, the recording captures the essence of his mid-caree artistic maturity. The track remains a beloved example of classic country music, reflecting the polished production values and melodic sensibilities that characterized his work for Mercury. It serves as an enduring testament to Young's contribution to the genre, offering listeners a poignant glimpse into the emotional landscape of 1960s country music without relying on complex arrangements.