D-I-V-O-R-C-E
Dolly Parton · The Tour Collection [2008]
Our little boy is four years old and he's quite a little man
So we spell out the words we don't want him to understand
Like T-O-Y or maybe S-U-P-R-I-S-E
But the words we're hiding from him now tears the heart right out of me.
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be going away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.
Watch him smile, he thinks it's Christmas or his fifth birthday
And he things C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurtin' words and I turn my head when I speak
'Cause I can't spell away this hurt that's dripping down my cheek.
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be going away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E...
D-I-V-O-R-C-E
Dolly Parton's "D-I-V-O-R-C-E" stands as a poignant song in her extensive discography, capturing the emotional turbulence of a marriage in crisis. Recorded for The Tour Collection in 2008, the track showcases Parton's signature blend of country storytelling and melodic warmth. The song explores the painful realization of a relationship's end, utilizing a rhythmic spelling of the title to emphasize the finality of the situation. As a seasoned artist known for navigating themes of love and heartbreak, Parton delivers a performance that resonates with listeners familiar with the complexities of long-term commitment. This recording highlights her enduring ability to craft relatable narratives within the country genre, adding another layer to her celebrated body of work without relying on overt dramatics.

