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Spoken version
A recorded reading of “The Song Keeps Its Place”. If the player does not load, use the original audio source.
Two notes return at the crossing: one low, one bent out of shape. I know the space between them. At the shuttered flower shop a hose lies looped across the path. I lift my foot over it. No ceremony, no pause. The notes come round again beside a sign I read while walking. They can keep their place. I do not have to stand still until they finish. Behind me, metal shutters rise. The morning enters by inches.
Lyrics
The Needle Never Lifts That worn record back home Gets stuck before the end I used to lift the needle Now I hear those notes again One held low One bent high I wait beside the crossing For the tune to pass me by The needle never lifts I take the longer way The needle never lifts I take the longer way I pass the shuttered florist Take the path beside the wall A man rolls up a hosepipe I step across the coil The same two notes come round I reach the next street sign Read it while I'm walking And let the notes run by I turn my collar down Let the cold air in The needle never lifts I take the longer way The needle never lifts I take the longer way (Ah-ah) The bakery lifts its shutter I pass before it's high
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