Ralph McTell is probably best known for the song Streets of London which has been covered by over a hundred artists around the world. From Clare to Here has proved almost as popular, during a long and continuing recording and performing career.
McTell's guitar style has been influenced by many of the USA's country blues 'Piedmont- style' guitar players of the early 20th century, including Blind Blake and Blind Willie McTell, from whom he took his name.
Let Me Down Easy
Ralph McTell Lyrics
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There's just something I feel from way down inside.
So hard to begin to try to explain it,
But something's going wrong, you're unable to hide.
Oh, let me down easy, baby.
Be so kind as to let me down slow.
Let me down easy, baby.
We are not drifting;
Not with one of us, still, left holding the line.
And the wind that has moved you, set your sails lifting,
Blows cold on the one who got cut loose behind.
Oh, let me down easy . . . .
How can I say it?
It's just something I know from way down inside.
No need for you to try
to deny it,
Just let me go gently into that good night.
In these lyrics, Ralph McTell is singing to someone he cares about deeply, but who he knows is pulling away from him. He can feel that something is wrong, even though the other person may be trying to hide their feelings. He is asking to be let down gently and slowly, a sign of his deep vulnerability and love for this person.
The metaphor of sailing is used throughout the song, with references to wind and sails. McTell is saying that their relationship used to be like a well-oiled sailboat, with both of them navigating together. But now the wind has shifted, and one person has been left behind, cold and alone. He knows that it may be time to let go of this relationship, but he is not ready for the pain that will come with it.
The repetition of the chorus, "Let me down easy, baby," emphasizes McTell's sense of pleading and longing for the other person to show him compassion and kindness. He wants their parting to be gentle and respectful, as difficult as it may be.
Overall, the lyrics of "Let Me Down Easy" speak to the pain of losing a relationship that was once strong and loving. McTell's use of sailing imagery adds depth and symbolism to the song, as he navigates the difficult waters of heartbreak and rejection.
Contributed by Violet L. Suggest a correction in the comments below.