About the song
John Prine, a beloved folk singer and songwriter, penned “Dear Abby” as a heartfelt tribute to a dear friend and a reflection on the challenges and joys of life. This poignant ballad, released in 1971, became a popular addition to Prine’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive voice and introspective lyrics, Prine explores the themes of friendship, loss, and the passage of time. Through emotive vocals and evocative imagery, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and the importance of human connection.
The opening lines, “Dear Abby, I’m writing to you today,” immediately establish the song’s subject and set a personal tone. Prine addresses his letter to a dear friend, sharing his thoughts and feelings about life, love, and loss. The lyrics evoke a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing listeners to connect with the song on a personal level.
Throughout the song, Prine uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his experiences and reflections. He references the “old familiar places” where he and his friend have shared memories and the “changes in our lives” that have brought them closer together. The lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the past, while also expressing a hope for a brighter future.
“Dear Abby” is more than just a personal letter; it is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the importance of human connection. Prine’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful performance resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the value of cherished relationships and the enduring nature of love. This timeless classic continues to touch the hearts of audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the bonds of friendship can provide comfort and support.
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Lyrics
Dear Abby, dear Abby
My feet are too long
My hair’s falling out and my rights are all wrong
My friends they all tell me that I’ve no friends at all
Won’t you write me a letter, won’t you give me a call
Signed bewildered
Bewildered, bewildered
You have no complaint
You are what your are and you ain’t what you ain’t
So listen up buster, and listen up good
Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood
Dear Abby, dear Abby
My fountain pen leaks
My wife hollers at me and my kids are all freaks
Every side I get up on is the wrong side of bed
If it weren’t so expensive I’d wish I were dead
Signed unhappy
Unhappy, unhappy
You have no complaint
You are what your are and you ain’t what you ain’t
So listen up buster, and listen up good
Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood
Dear Abby, dear Abby
Dear Abby, dear Abby
Dear Abby, dear Abby
You won’t believe this
But my stomach makes noises whenever I kiss
My girlfriend tells me it’s all in my head
But my stomach tells me to write you instead
Signed noise-maker
Noise-maker, noise-maker
You have no complaint
You are what your are and you ain’t what you ain’t
So listen up buster, and listen up good
Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood
Dear Abby, dear Abby
Well I never thought
That me and my girlfriend would ever get caught
We were sitting in the back seat just shooting the breeze
With her hair up in curlers and her pants to her knees
Signed just married
Just married just married
You have no complaint
You are what your are and you ain’t what you ain’t
So listen up buster, and listen up good
Stop wishing for bad luck and knocking on wood
Signed dear Abby