Why Can't I Forget
Maureen McGovern · State Of The Heart [1988]
Many times a day, I say,
Where did I leave my key?
Where have I put my purse?
Where else should I be?
It's perverse
A life of hide-and-seek
I never know the date and worse,
The day of the week
So, why can't I forget
The day I met him?
He held the door and let me go ahead
Rushing to our separate lives
We took a walk instead
Why can't I forget him
And every word he said?
I'm always sending Christmas cards
They're more interesting in spring
Only my banker knows
The checks I forgot to sign
Where did I get these clothes?
They're not mine!
I made myself a list
Of things I really have to find
But where is that list?
So, why can't I forget
Those summer evenings
He'd wait for me outside our small café?
We were both like kids again
We had so much to say
Why can't I forget him?
It's funny in a way
Funny just remembering
The way we laughed at ev'rything
I found the one that I'd been waiting for
I could hardly recognize
The woman I was in his eyes,
A woman I had never known before
Why can't I forget
The way he touched me?
I see his face, desire in his eyes,
The smile he gave to no one else,
His silences and sighs
Why can't I forget
The way he loved me,
The way I loved him,
And the way he said goodbye?
Why Can't I Forget
Maureen McGovern's 'Why Can't I Forget' stands as a poignant song in her extensive discography, showcasing the emotive power that defined her career. Released on the 1988 album State Of The Heart, the track reflects the polished production values and sophisticated songwriting that characterized her work during this era. Known for her ability to convey deep sentiment through a clear, resonant vocal style, McGovern delivers a performance that resonates with listeners familiar with her signature sound. This recording contributes to a broader body of work that includes celebrated hits and enduring standards, cementing her status as a significant figure in contemporary vocal music. The song remains a testament to her enduring artistry and her capacity to capture the complexities of human emotion within a concise musical framework.