The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #14499   Message #125716
Posted By: Stewie
19-Oct-99 - 08:12 PM
Thread Name: Lyr Req: Song for Martin (Ralph McTell)
Subject: Lyr Add: SONG FOR MARTIN (Ralph McTell)
The lad's articulation is appalling at times. The following is my attempt at transcription. I have put brackets around the problematic areas. I don't believe it's 'And try and put your foot in the door' because he definitely says '… you and put your foot in the door'. It sounds like 'seal you' , but that makes no sense. 'Steel' is also drawing a long bow, but what can he be saying? 'The telly winks' is probably a bit of creative thinking, but it sounds something like that. I reckon 'one of them guys in the car will arrive' and 'endless coffee' are right. 'But in your eyes' is just a guess. I hope this moves things forward a bit, Stewie:

SONG FOR MARTIN

Don't leave Martin alone tonight
Just because he looks all right
I've seen him look like this before
And if he says he wants to be alone
At least try to walk with him home
(Steel you) and put your foot in the door

Don't leave Martin alone tonight
Keep him talking until daylight
This time well I think he's coming through

Don't leave Martin alone tonight
Just because he looks all right
He's only gotta pick up the phone
Now one of them guys (in the car 'll arrive)
And give him just enough on account
They know that he'll be back for more

Don't leave Martin alone tonight
Keep him talking until daylight
This time well I think he's coming through

Now he's trying to show he's cool, but I know him
I ain't fooling
Because you love him, he's bound to lie
This time well he's got so close
Now's the time when he's scared the most
He's looking everywhere (but in your eyes)

So don't leave Martin alone tonight
Keep him talking until daylight
This time well I think he's coming through

(There's endless coffee) and cigarettes
Now don't take it hard when he says
He doesn't need you 'cos that's when he needs you most
(You cry, love, laugh, the telly winks)
And suddenly he'll fall asleep
Then you let your own eyes close

Don't leave Martin alone tonight
Keep him talking until daylight
This time well I think he's coming through
This time I think he's coming through