Often Is A Word I Seldom Use
John Prine · Other Songs - John Prine
I know that you're lonely
You lie awake 'till way past when
I want you to know
That I'm leaving you only
'Cause I might not get the chance again
I'm cold and I'm tired
And I can't stop coughing
Long enough to tell you all of the news
I'd like to tell you
That I'll see you more often
But often is a word I seldom use
Often is a word I seldom use
Tell me, where did the weekend go?
Tell me, where did the weekend go?
Went like thunder, felt like snow
Went like thunder, felt like snow
You must think my life's a circus
Watching me laughing
And slapping my thighs
How'd ya like to die
In the house of mirrors
With nobody around to close your eyes
I'm cold and I'm tired
And I can't stop coughing
Long enough to tell you all of the news
I'd like to tell you
That I'll see you more often
But often is a word I seldom use
Often is a word I seldom use
Going down to the Greyhound station
Going back home
And get what's mine
Got me a date
With the ten o'clock special
Gonna be there at a quarter to nine
I'm cold and I'm tired
And I can't stop coughing
Long enough to tell you all of the news
I'd like to tell you
That I'll see you more often
But often is a word I seldom use
Often is a word I seldom use
Often Is A Word I Seldom Use
John Prine's 'Often Is A Word I Seldom Use' stands as a quintessential example of his signature folk-rock storytelling, blending acoustic warmth with social observation. Recorded during a period where Prine refined his ability to weave complex narratives into accessible melodies, the track exemplifies his knack for addressing universal human experiences with gentle irony. The song reflects the broader themes found in his discography, particularly his focus on everyday life, relationships, and the quiet absurdities of modern existence. As a staple of his live performances and studio recordings, the piece showcases his distinctive vocal delivery and lyrical precision, cementing his status as a master of the American singer-songwriter tradition. It remains a poignant reminder of Prine's ability to find profundity in the mundane.