Folk Friday #2

Just got back from an early walk in the woods with Chance and Echo...lovely, absolutely lovely. Summer mornings are priceless.

This week’s Folk Friday tune has a lot of memories for me. The Moon and Saint Christopher by Mary Chapin Carpenter is one of the first songs Everett and I learned to play together. I think of it as every woman’s anthem.

My favourite Mary Chapin Carpenter songs have never been the popular ones, though I like them too. The lyrics of her more reflective tunes are poignant and beautiful, and so true.

When I was young I spoke like a child, I saw with a child’s eyes
An open door was to a girl like the stars are to the skies
It’s funny how the world lives up to all your expectations
With adventures for the stout of heart, the lure of open spaces

And later:

But now I’m grown and I speak like a woman and see with a woman’s eyes
An open door is to me now like the saddest of goodbyes
When it’s too late for turning back I pray for the heart and the nerve
And I rely upon the moon and Saint Christopher

There are some performers best seen live. Their energy, stage presence and charisma are a big part of their appeal, but to me, this is the kind of song - and artist - best enjoyed while relaxing at home with bare feet and a beer in hand. It isn’t sad, it’s about the strength we gain through experience.

Enjoy!