Conversation

by Joni Mitchell

He comes for conversation
I comfort him sometimes
Comfort and consultation
He knows that's what he'll find

I bring him apples and cheeses
He brings me songs to play
He sees me when he pleases
I see him in cafes

And I only say hello
And turn away before his lady knows
How much I want to see him

She removes him like a ring
To wash her hands
She only brings him out to show her friends
I want to free him

Secrets and sharing soda
That's how our time began
Love is a story told to a friend
It's second hand

But I'll listen to his questions
I'll give my answers when they're found
He says she keeps him guessing
But I know she keeps him down

She speaks in sorry sentences
Miraculous repentances
I don't believe her

Tomorrow he will come to me
And he'll speak his sorrow endlessly and ask me why
Why can't I leave her?

He comes for conversation
I comfort him sometimes
Comfort and consultation
He knows that's what he'll find

(Late 1967 version, which stayed largely the same throughout the Song To A Seagull sessions.:)

...I bring him grapes and cheeses...

He's acted down all evening
Maybe it's over now
Maybe she's finally leaving
I'd like to show her now

But friends are friends forever
So hard to change their role
Laugh with him, cry together
Hey friend, it feels so whole

But you keep your feelings deep inside
You talk of them and think of pride
Now is the wrong time
But maybe if a dozen days are warm and right
You'll hear him say "I've wanted you baby for such a long time"

He comes for conversation
I comfort him sometimes
Comfort and consultation
He knows that's what he'll find

© October 16, 1967; Gandalf Pub Co, then April 1, 1968; Siquomb Publishing Corp (as 'He Comes For Conversation')

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