When I Sing For Strangers

The Poor ships that we sailed
In those seas of sheets
Harbored in the passing safety
Of each others teeth

White like lies that couldn't hurt
Clasping on my back
Don't forget me when you leave
But don't let me hold you back

-
But how could i forget your hair
Thats grown longer since you left
I smell it still in the cotton waves
Of other women's beds

The bodies i borrow for a night
Have never felt less right
Reminders of you as they glide into
Slumber by my side
-

Her face fits fine in the cinder of
My hateful dirty palms
I used to wash my hands at night
Before I'd sing you songs

When i sing for strangers
My voice is weak and young
I think of your house out in the woods
And the words that you forced from your lungs