Walt Whitman’s Haversack

by Brian Peck & Madeline Fendrick

Genre: Folk/Acoustic

Lyrics

Why am I drawn to the wounded
When I could turn my cheek and move on
Fortune allows me to easily escape
So why am I down on my knees
The ground is frozen and the story in those eyes
Will never be told again
But I find in this place
Something human
Something real
I want to give
Is there anything I can give?

I have fruits that will color the sky
They’re delightful, and ever so sweet
The pleasure will rain onto your tongue
They’re ripe and ready to eat

I have brandy to lift your spirits
And quench your longing heart
Take a swig and you’ll be singing
A melody ’bout your sweetheart

I have plugs of tobacco
Given from this bountiful land
Pack your pipe and warm your lungs
Or take a bite and let the juices run

Here’s a biscuit for you my friend
And some jam to spread upon it
Take this blanket, more snow is ahead
But tomorrow you’ll be far from this place

My brother, you are tired, close your eyes
You’re hearing the last of the cannons
Your words will be in this letter
Your mother will know you’ve been found

Why am I drawn to the wounded
When I could turn my cheek and move on
Fortune allows me to easily escape
So why am I down on my knees
The ground is frozen and the story in those eyes
Will never be told again
But I find in this place
Something human
Something real
I want to give
Is there anything I can give?