About the song
Gordon Lightfoot, a Canadian folk singer-songwriter, crafted a timeless masterpiece with “The Last Time I Saw Her.” Released in 1974, this poignant ballad has resonated with audiences for decades, touching upon themes of love, loss, and the bittersweet memories that linger long after a relationship ends.
Lightfoot’s distinctive baritone voice sets the stage for a tale of nostalgia and regret. The song’s opening lines, “I remember the day I met her, down by the old canal,” immediately transport listeners to a simpler time, evoking a sense of longing and wistfulness. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young love blossoming amidst idyllic surroundings.
Throughout the song, Lightfoot weaves a narrative of a love affair that has reached its conclusion. He recalls shared moments, from walking hand-in-hand to dancing under the stars. These cherished memories are juxtaposed with the bittersweet realization that they are now distant echoes of a past life.
The chorus, with its haunting refrain of “The last time I saw her, she was standing there, looking so sad,” captures the emotional weight of the song. Lightfoot’s voice conveys a deep sense of sorrow and longing, as he reflects on the finality of their parting.
The bridge of the song introduces a note of uncertainty and hope. Lightfoot contemplates the possibility of seeing her again, but acknowledges that the chances are slim. This bittersweet contemplation adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, suggesting that even in the face of loss, love’s memory can provide solace.
“The Last Time I Saw Her” is a testament to Lightfoot’s ability to craft songs that resonate on a profound level. His evocative lyrics and heartfelt delivery have made this song a beloved classic, touching the hearts of listeners across generations. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Lightfoot’s music or discovering his work for the first time, this song is a must-listen.
Video
Lyrics
The last time I saw her face
Her eyes were bathed in starlight and her hair hung long
The last time she spoke to me
Her lips were like the scented flowers inside a rain-drenched forest
But that was so long ago that I can
Scarcely feel the way I felt before
And if time could heal the wounds
I would tear the threads away that I might bleed some more
The last time I walked with her
Her laughter was the steeple bells
That ring to greet the morning sun
A voice that called to everyone
To love the ground she walked upon
Those were good days
The last time I held her hand,
Her touch was autumn, spring and summer, and winter too
The last time I let go of her, she walked away into the night
I lost her in the misty streets, a thousand months, a thousand miles
When other lips will kiss her eyes
A million miles beyond the moon, that’s where she is
But that was so long ago that I can
Scarcely feel the way I felt before
And if time could heal the wounds
I would tear the threads away that I might bleed some more
The last time I saw her face
Her eyes were bathed in starlight and she walked alone
The last time she kissed my cheek
Her lips were like the wilted leaves
Upon the autumn covered hills
Resting on the frozen ground
The seeds of love lie cold and still
Beneath a battered marking stone
It lies forgotten