Ships
Ian Hunter · Strings Attached [2004]
We walked to the sea, just my father and me
And the dogs played around on the sand.
Winter cold cut the air, hanging still everywhere
Dressed in gray did he say hold my hand?
I said love's easier when it's far away
We sat and watched the distant lights.
We're two ships that pass in the night
And we smile when we say it's alright.
We're still here, it's just that we're out of sight
Like those ships that pass in the night.
There's a boat on the line where the sea meets the sky.
There's another that rides far behind.
And it seems you and I are like strangers a wide
Ways apart as we drift on through time.
He said it's harder now you're far away
We only read you when you write.
We're two ships that pass in the night
We both smile when we say it's alright.
We're still here, oh it's just that we're out of sight
Like those ships that pass in the night.
We're two ships that pass in the night
We're two ships that pass in the night
We're two ships that pass in the night
(repeat and fade)
Ships
Ian Hunter's "Ships" appears on his 2004 album Strings Attached, a record that highlights his enduring songwriting prowess well into the twenty-first century. As the former frontman of Mott the Hoople, Hunter has long maintained a distinct voice within rock and pop, often exploring themes of resilience and observation. This track continues his tradition of crafting melodic, narrative-driven songs that balance introspection with accessible arrangements. The album itself represents a significant chapter in his extensive discography, showcasing his ability to evolve while retaining the core elements that defined his earlier work. Hunter's catalog remains a testament to his influence on British rock, with songs like this one serving as a reminder of his consistent creative output across decades.