Michael Nesmith
In the Afternoon
Sunlight fading in the afternoon
Shadows crawl across the land
Tired backs bending in the afternoon
Pockets glove the tired hand
Walking slowly to the domicile
Built from mud and board and tears
Dreams unloosening the hidden smile
He's been saving up for years
Rapture secretly turns to speak
Tantalizing those who are weak
Offering in low, languid tones
Houses that cannot be homes
Pioneering spirit abounds
In dreams that we keep fastening down
Dreams that to live must be free
To touch each man's destiny
Turn and dig your heels in the road
Don't be bound or trapped by the old
Take from the past what you need
To give to the new life you lead
Run from the false golden crust
That hides all the heartbreak and rust
Run to the arms of your youth
Run to the arms of the truth
Sunlight fading in the afternoon
Shadows crawl across the land
Tired backs bending in the afternoon
Pockets glove the tired hand