He comes for conversation
I comfort him sometimes
Comfort and consultation
He knows that's what he'll find
I bring him apples and cheeses
He brings me songs to play
He sees me when he pleases
I see him in cafes
And I only say, hello
And turn away before his lady knows
How much I want to see him
She removes him, like a ring
To wash her hands
She only brings him out to show her friends
I want to free him

Secrets and sharing soda
That's how our time began
Love is a story told to a friend
It's second hand
But I'll listen to his questions
I'll give my answers when they're found
He says she keeps him guessing
I know she keeps him down
She speaks in sorry sentences
Miraculous repentance's
I don't believe her
Tomorrow he will come to me
And he'll speak his sorrow's endlessly and he'll ask me why
Why can't I leave her

He comes for conversation
I comfort him sometimes
Comfort and consultation
He knows that's what he'll find
He knows that's what, he'll find


Lyrics submitted by anna118k, edited by sharkycharming

Conversation Lyrics as written by Joni Mitchell

Lyrics © Reservoir Media Management, Inc.

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Conversation song meanings
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  • -1
    General Comment

    I love this song. Has anyone ever heard the recording of this from the "Second Fret Sessions" album? (It's somewhat rare, but you can find it on certain file-sharing and bittorrent sites.)

    That's where the "grapes and cheeses" version comes from.

    It also includes an extra verse which I'd never heard before. I tried my best to transcribe it. Some of the words I wasn't sure about, so I put those in parentheses. But it doesn't change the meaning that much if they're wrong anyway. It went like this:

    He’s acting (down and beaten?) And maybe it’s over now Maybe she’s finally leaving I’d like to show her (out/now) But friends are friends forever It’s so hard to change the role Laugh with him, cry together Hey friend, (it) feels so (whole?) But you keep your feelings deep inside You talk of them, you think you’ll cry Now is the wrong time But maybe, if a dozen days Are warm and right You will hear him say “I want you, baby, for such a long time”

    I think it's a great verse- no idea why she left it off the Ladies of the Canyon album.

    lastoftherockstarson July 02, 2007   Link

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