Down country roads I walk in my dreams
Roads from when I was young and free
Passing through orchards and pastures
by brooks that start in the hills as springs
flowing to rivers that lead to the sea
I bask in the contentment of country life
I can still get there, where I was once young
When my hands smelled like the animals
The horses and cows the goats and raccoons
The train in the distance warning its passing
Echoing up the valley and across the fields
In a soft moaning cry like that of a lost calf


Yes, I was a country boy, a farmers son by birth
Awaking before the sun since I can ever remember
Arising to the tasks of toil and the duties of husbandry
Playing in the open fields and forested knolls
Building forts among the rocks at the cornfields center
Watching from hidden places seeing life as it was
And always yearning for the city and the fast life
While watching the cars drive by on the highway
The highway leading to the city and the world beyond
And all the wonders that were the dreams of a country boy
Yes I was a foolish country boy who dreamed of leaving
Who now can only dream of going back home

08/17/2003

Posted on 08/17/2003
Copyright © 2025 Brian Francis