John Denver – Old Folks

About The Song

John Denver, a name synonymous with heartfelt folk music and beautiful ballads, has gifted us with countless songs that have touched our souls. Among his vast repertoire, “Old Folks” stands as a poignant and heartwarming tribute to the aging process. This particular song offers a gentle reflection on the passage of time, the bonds of family, and the enduring spirit of those who have come before us.

With its simple yet evocative melody and Denver’s signature warm vocals, “Old Folks” paints a vivid picture of cherished memories and the comfort of home. The lyrics, filled with nostalgia and wisdom, invite listeners to contemplate the beauty and challenges of growing older. Denver’s ability to capture the essence of human experience is on full display in this song, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with people of all ages.

One of the most striking aspects of “Old Folks” is its celebration of the elderly. Denver avoids sentimentalizing the aging process, instead choosing to present it with a sense of respect and admiration. The song acknowledges the challenges that come with age, such as physical limitations and the loss of loved ones, but it also emphasizes the enduring strength and resilience of the human spirit.

By focusing on the positive aspects of growing older, Denver encourages listeners to embrace the changes that come with time. He reminds us that age is not a measure of worth, but rather an opportunity to appreciate the simple joys of life. Whether it’s spending time with family, reminiscing about the past, or simply enjoying the peace of a quiet moment, Denver suggests that there is beauty to be found at every stage of life.

The song’s message of hope and optimism is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where youth and vitality are often idealized. “Old Folks” serves as a gentle reminder that aging is a natural and inevitable part of life, and that it can be a time of great fulfillment and satisfaction. By honoring the experiences and wisdom of our elders, we can enrich our own lives and strengthen the bonds that connect us to those who have come before us.

John Denver’s “Old Folks” is a timeless masterpiece that celebrates the beauty and dignity of aging. With its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody, this song offers a comforting and uplifting message that resonates with people of all generations. Whether you are young or old, you are sure to find something meaningful in this enduring classic.

Video

Lyric

The old folks don’t talk much
They talk so slowly when they do
They are rich they are poor
Their illusions are gone
They share one heart for two

Their homes all smell of time
Of old photographs
And an old fashioned song
Though you may live in town
You live so far away
When you’ve lived too long

Have they laughed too much
Do their dry voices crack
Talking of things gone by
Have they cried too much
A tear or two still always seems
To cloud the eye

They tremble as they watch the old silver clock
When day is through
Tick tock oh so slow
It says yes it says no
It says I wait for you

The old folks dream no more
Their books have gone to sleep
The piano’s out of tune
The little cat is dead
And no more do they sing on a Sunday afternoon

The old folks move no more
Their world become to small
Their bodies feel like lead
They might look out a window
Or else sit it a chair
Or else they stay in bed

And if they still go out
Arm in arm, arm in arm
In the morning chill
Its to have a good cry
To say their last goodbye
To one who’s older still
And then they go home
To the old silver clock
When day is through
Tick tock so so slow
It says yes it says no
It says I wait for you

The old folks never die
They just put down their heads
And go to sleep one day
They will hold each others hands
Like children in the dark
But one will get lost anyway
And the other will remain
Just sitting in a room
Which makes no sound
It doesn’t matter now
The song has died away
And echo’s all around

You’ll see them as they walk
Through the s