About the song
Have you ever felt like a weary traveler on a long and winding road, seeking solace and meaning in a world that often feels uncertain? Emmylou Harris and Kris Kristofferson’s The Pilgrim, Chapter 33 captures this timeless human experience with poignant lyrics and soulful melodies. This beautiful duet invites us to join them on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.
The song’s narrative follows a pilgrim who is searching for their place in the world. Through metaphorical storytelling, Harris and Kristofferson explore themes of faith, hope, and resilience. The harmonious blend of their voices creates a sense of intimacy and connection, drawing the listener into the heart of the song.
Musically, The Pilgrim, Chapter 33 is a masterclass in Americana. The acoustic guitar provides a gentle foundation, while the pedal steel guitar adds a touch of melancholy. Harris’s clear and emotive vocals are perfectly complemented by Kristofferson’s gravelly baritone. Together, they create a sound that is both timeless and deeply moving.
For me, The Pilgrim, Chapter 33 is a song that offers comfort and inspiration. It reminds me that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope to be found. I encourage you to listen to this song and let it transport you to a place of peace and reflection.
Video
Lyrics
See him wasted on the sidewalk in his jacket and his jeans,
Wearin’ yesterday’s misfortunes like a smile
Once he had a future full of money, love, and dreams,
Which he spent like they was goin’ outta style
And he keeps right on a’changin’ for the better or the worse,
Searchin’ for a shrine he’s never found
Never knowin’ if believin’ is a blessin’ or a curse,
Or if the goin’ up was worth the comin’ down
He’s a poet, he’s a picker
He’s a prophet, he’s a pusher
He’s a pilgrim and a preacher, and a problem when he’s stoned
He’s a walkin’ contradiction, partly truth and partly fiction,
Takin’ ev’ry wrong direction on his lonely way back home.
He has tasted good and evil in your bedrooms and your bars,
And he’s traded in tomorrow for today
Runnin’ from his devils, lord, and reachin’ for the stars,
And losin’ all he’s loved along the way
But if this world keeps right on turnin’ for the better or the worse,
And all he ever gets is older and around
>from the rockin’ of the cradle to the rollin’ of the hearse,
The goin’ up was worth the comin’ down
He’s a poet, he’s a picker
He’s a prophet, he’s a pusher
He’s a pilgrim and a preacher, and a problem when he’s stoned
He’s a walkin’ contradiction, partly truth and partly fiction,
Takin’ ev’ry wrong direction on his lonely way back home.
There’s a lotta wrong directions on that lonely way back home.