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'I am the midnight watchman down at Miller's Tool and Die. And I watch the metal rusting, and I watch the time go by. A week ago at the diner I stopped to get a bite. And this here lovely lady she sat two seats from my right. And Lord, Lord, Lord she was alright. Oh she was so damned beautiful that she'd warm a winter's frost. But she was long past lonely, and well nigh unto lost. Now I'm not much of a mover, or a pick-em-up easy guy, But I decided to glide on over, and give her one good try. And Lord, Lord, Lord she was worth a try.'

Harry Chapin#17

LifeLoveConnectionLonelinessCourage

About this quote

What does it mean?
A working-class man finds beauty and connection in a fleeting encounter despite his solitude.
In plain terms
A lonely worker notices a beautiful woman and decides to try connecting.
What can you take from it?
Reach out even if you feel out of practice.

Where it applies

  • social anxiety
  • dating
  • daily life

Putting it to work

  • start conversations
  • notice others
  • overcome hesitation

Questions to consider

  • When was your last try?
  • Who do you see?

Another view

It glosses over the risk of rejection or misunderstanding.

More from Harry Chapin

  1. She said, 'I don't want to bother you, Consider it's understood. I know I'm not no beauty queen, But I sure can listen good.'

    Permalink to quote #16
  2. 'And it shamed me into silence, as quietly she said, 'If you want me to come with you, then that's all right with me. Cause I know I'm going nowhere, and anywh…

    Permalink to quote #18
  3. And the broad who served the whisky She was a big old friendly girl. And she tried to fight her empty nights By smilin' at the world.

    Permalink to quote #15

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