About the song
“With Pen in Hand” is a poignant song written by Bobby Goldsboro, first appearing on his 1968 album *Honey*. This track stands out for its deeply emotional lyrics, which tackle the heart-wrenching subjects of divorce and the loss of child custody. The song is narrated from the perspective of a parent who fears losing their child and desperately appeals to their spouse to reconsider the decision before it’s too late. The raw emotion and vulnerability expressed in the lyrics make this song a powerful reflection of the turmoil that accompanies the breakdown of a family.
Bobby Goldsboro initially recorded “With Pen in Hand” on February 26, 1968. Though it was included on his March 1968 album *Honey*, the song wasn’t released as a single until August 1, 1972. When it finally hit the charts, Goldsboro’s version of the song resonated with listeners, spending five weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 and reaching No. 94. It also climbed to No. 28 on Billboard’s Easy Listening chart and made its way onto the Cash Box Top 100 at No. 87. The song’s success extended to Record World’s “The Singles Chart,” where it peaked at No. 92.
The song’s theme struck a chord with many, leading to it being covered by various artists throughout the late 1960s and 1970s. Each version carried its unique interpretation, yet all maintained the core of Goldsboro’s heartfelt plea. The song’s ability to capture such a personal and painful experience speaks to its enduring impact. Whether through Goldsboro’s own rendition or the numerous covers by other artists, “With Pen in Hand” remains a significant piece of music history, illustrating the complex emotions involved in familial separation and the lingering hope for reconciliation.
Video
Lyrics
With pen in hand
You sign your name
Today at five
I’ll be on that train
And you’ll be free
And I’ll be alone
So alone
If you think
We can’t find the love we once knew
If you think
I can’t make everything up to you
Then I’ll be gone
And you’ll be on your own
You’ll be on your own
Can you take good care of Jenny
Can you take her to school everyday
Can you teach her how to play
All the games that little girls play
Hear what I say
Can you teach her how to roll up her hair
Can you make sure each night that she says her prayers
Well if you can do all these things
Then maybe she won’t miss me
Maybe she won’t miss me
And tonight as you laid in that big lonely bed
And you look at that pillow
Where I laid my head
With your heart on fire
Will you have no desire
To kiss me
Or to hold me
And if you can forget
The good times we had
If you don’t think
They out weigh the bad
Well then go ahead
Sign your name
And I’ll be
On my way
I’ll be on my way