For the Widows in Paradise
The Rusty Pipes Lyrics


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I have called you children, I have called you son
What is there to answer if I′m the only one?
Morning comes in Paradise, morning comes in light
Still I must obey, still I must invite
If there's anything to say, if there′s anything to do
If there's any other way, I'll do anything for you

I was dressed embarrassment
I was dressed in wine
If you had a part of me, will you take your time?
Even if I come back, even if I die
Is there some idea to replace my life?
Like a father to impress
Like a mother′s mourning dress
If you ever make a mess, I′ll do anything for you

I have called you preacher, I have called you son
If you have a father or if you haven't one
I′ll do anything for you, I'll do anything for you
I′ll do anything for you, I'll do anything for you
I did everything for you, I did everything for you
I did everything for you, I did everything for you




I did everything for you, I did everything for you
I did everything for you, I did everything for you

Overall Meaning

The Rusty Pipes's song For the Widows in Paradise is a beautiful and emotional song that explores the themes of sacrifice, love, and the need to help and support others. The lyrics suggest that the singer is willing to do anything for the person they are addressing, which can be interpreted as a lover, child, or anyone they care for deeply.


The first line of the song, "I have called you children, I have called you son," can be seen as a reference to the biblical figure of Jesus Christ, who referred to his followers as his children and sons. The singer is suggesting that they too have a paternalistic love for the person they are addressing. The line "What is there to answer if I'm the only one?" is particularly powerful, as it suggests that even if the other person cannot or will not respond to the singer's love, the singer will continue to love and support them.


The second verse of the song, "I was dressed in embarrassment, I was dressed in wine," can be seen as a metaphor for the singer's vulnerability and willingness to sacrifice themselves for the other person. The line "If you ever make a mess, I'll do anything for you" reinforces the idea that the singer is willing to go to great lengths to help and support the other person regardless of the cost.


Overall, the song is a beautiful and emotional exploration of love and sacrifice, and the need to support and care for others even when it requires personal sacrifice.


Line by Line Meaning

I have called you children, I have called you son
I have referred to you as my own, with love and connection


What is there to answer if I′m the only one?
There's no need for you to respond, as I am the only person involved in this conversation


Morning comes in Paradise, morning comes in light
In this heavenly place, every day brings a new beginning full of hope and joy


Still I must obey, still I must invite
Even though I have the freedom to do as I please, I must follow a moral code and welcome others into my life


If there's anything to say, if there′s anything to do
If there is anything at all that needs to be addressed or accomplished


If there's any other way, I'll do anything for you
I am willing to go to great lengths to aid and assist you, even if it means finding another solution


I was dressed embarrassment
I was clothed in shame and humiliation


I was dressed in wine
I was intoxicated and consumed by my regrets and sorrows


If you had a part of me, will you take your time?
If you possess any piece of my heart or soul, will you handle it with care and consideration?


Even if I come back, even if I die
Regardless of whether I return or pass away


Is there some idea to replace my life?
Is there a concept or notion that can replace the purpose and meaning of my existence?


Like a father to impress
As a parent would strive to make their child proud


Like a mother′s mourning dress
Similar to the somber attire a mother might wear while grieving


If you ever make a mess, I′ll do anything for you
If you make a mistake or find yourself in a difficult situation, I will do whatever it takes to support and assist you


I have called you preacher, I have called you son
I have addressed you with respect and admiration, both as a spiritual guide and as a cherished family member


If you have a father or if you haven't one
Whether you have a paternal figure in your life or not


I′ll do anything for you, I'll do anything for you
I am completely dedicated to aiding and serving you, no matter the cost or hardship


I did everything for you, I did everything for you
I have given my all to support and uplift you, and will continue to do so


I did everything for you, I did everything for you
My actions and devotion demonstrate my unwavering commitment to you


I did everything for you, I did everything for you
Every decision, sacrifice, and effort I have made has been for your benefit


I did everything for you, I did everything for you
My dedication to you is absolute and unconditional




Writer(s): Sufjan Stevens

Contributed by Caroline R. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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