JPF Home Page Forums Lyric and MP3 Feedback MP3 Feedback Forum When I'm Just a Memory (new bridge)

Hi Caroline,

Wow!! This is quite beautiful and touching.
I didn't understand (being away a while) the true nature of "When I'm Just a Memory" until I was reading through the discussion. It could be about divorce and the love is ending. Yet that LIFE may be ending... oh..... wow that ramps it up quite a bit.

I would say, if you want *that* real meaning perfectly clear, there needs to be a hint in the first verse that indicates illness, an imminent threat.

Although--going through it again -- it is clear.... I just may have missed it first time through. I'm reminded of Vince Gill's song about his late brother though (on his Christmas album) where the lyric is clear and direct that his brother is gone and this is the first holiday without him.

It's just that - "you" being a memory --as it stands-- could be... any way of departing out of someone's life.

So: that all said: my opinion on the bridge is to leave the first bridge, talking about the kids and that you'll hear their prayers (when you're on the other side)... that is completely moving.
With just a nod in the first line or two about "the doctor says it don't look good" or, something like that.

However: if you want it open to whatever interpretation the listener draws, the second bridge is also great and very moving and it can be as it stands.

I am not a huge country music listener anymore (grew up with it!! so I know what it's supposed to be), but I honestly can hear "HIT" in this song. It's really quite good. Be proud of yourself.

And Heather is --of course-- brilliant on those vocals.

I hope you're well.

Linda