Tell Me to My Face
Dan Fogelberg · Portrait: Music Of Dan Fogelberg From 1972-1997 [1997]
Of the note you sent this evening
To my door you're not deceiving me
Well, I'd have thought that you'd have known much better
Sending 'round an unsigned letter
Facing me would be much better now
Is it just that you can't face the future with me
Can't you tell me to my face?
You just took the coward's way to say goodbye
How would you feel here in my place?
And now I know my love is lost on you
And nothing you can say or do
Will turn my head around the other way
I'd have thought you'd have the decency
To come and tell the truth to me
Instead of telling lies your eyes betray
Is it just that you can't face the future with me
Can't you tell me to my face?
You just took the coward's way to say goodbye
How would you feel here in my place?
Tell me to my face you're leaving now
Tell me to my face that you're leaving now
And though you try to justify the meaning
Of the note you sent this evening
To my door you're not deceiving me
Well, I'd have thought that you'd have known much better
Sending 'round an unsigned letter
Facing me would be much better now
Is it just that you can't face the future with me
Can't you tell me to my face?
You just took the coward's way to say goodbye
How would you feel here in my place?
Tell me to my face you're leaving now
Tell me to my face that you're leaving now
Tell Me to My Face
Dan Fogelberg's 'Tell Me to My Face' stands as a poignant centerpiece on his 1997 retrospective album, 'Portrait: Music Of Dan Fogelberg From 1972-1997.' The track exemplifies Fogelberg's signature acoustic-folk style, characterized by his distinctive vocal delivery and introspective songwriting that often explores themes of longing and personal reflection. Recorded during the height of his commercial success, the song reflects the emotional depth found throughout his discography, particularly in works like 'Portrait' and 'Rock Breakout Years: 1980.' It remains a staple of his catalog, resonating with listeners who appreciate the blend of traditional folk instrumentation and contemporary pop sensibilities that defined his career from the early 1970s through the late 1990s.