Lyrics
[Verse 1] You left your blue cup by the window A ring of tea along the rim The garden gate leans toward the gravel And every morning starts with him I fold the blanket from the sofa Set your book beside the chair The house keeps all the small reminders As if your hands were still in there [Chorus] If you come back, come slowly There’s no need to explain I’ll leave the porch light open And a coat beside the frame If you come back, come softly Like a bird returning home I’ve been learning how to hold you Even when I’m here alone [Verse 2] The creek is high from melted snow now It carries branches past the mill Your photograph is on the dresser Your smile has never learned to still I hear the kettle start its singing I hear the floorboard by the stairs For half a breath I turn to greet you Then find the quiet waiting there [Chorus] If you come back, come slowly There’s no need to explain I’ll leave the porch light open And a coat beside the frame If you come back, come softly Like a bird returning home I’ve been learning how to hold you Even when I’m here alone [Bridge] Maybe love is not a doorway Maybe love is folded cloth Something kept through every weather Something missing, never lost [Final Chorus] If you come back, come slowly Let the old floor take your weight I’ll put the blue cup on the table I’ll remember not to wait If you come back, come softly I’ll be here, but I’ll be changed With a little room for sorrow And a little room for grace [Outro] The garden gate leans toward the gravel The evening settles clear I leave the porch light open Just in case you’re near
