Sixteen Miles
Gordon Lightfoot · Lightfoot! [1966]
Each and every rose bud you will find me gone
So knock me down and pick me up
And knock me down again
Break my heart steal my gold
And slander my good name
Seven lonely hours on the morning train
Takes me to a place where I won't come back again
Seven lonely Pullmans speedin' down the line
Takin' me away from an old love of mine
Sixteen miles to seven lakes way up among the pines
In some hidden valley where the twirlin' river twines
Where the fish swim up and down
And the sparklin' water falls
Where the thunder rolls
And the lonely puma calls
Somewhere on the mountain I'll take another name
Rid my mind of memories and start my life again
Somewhere in the wilderness
I'll build a cabin small
Then forget so I
Won't remember you at all
Sixteen Miles
Sixteen Miles stands as a poignant song in Gordon Lightfoot's early discography, appearing on his 1966 album Lightfoot!. During this formative period, the Canadian singer-songwriter was establishing his signature blend of folk and country influences, characterized by intricate guitar work and narrative lyricism. The track reflects the introspective storytelling that would later define his career, showcasing his ability to craft intimate portraits of life and travel. While Lightfoot would achieve massive commercial success in the following decade with anthems like Sundown and The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, this recording captures the raw, developing artistry of a musician honing his craft. The song remains a testament to his enduring contribution to the folk-rock genre, offering listeners a glimpse into the musical foundation that supported his long and celebrated body of work.