You Left Me a Long Long Time Ago
Willie Nelson Lyrics


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You tell me today that you're leaving
But just think a while
I'm sure that you must know
Today might be the day that you walk away
But you left me a long, long time ago

Today's just the day that ends it all
Except the usual mem'ries
That always linger on
And today might be the day that you walk away
But you left me a long, long time ago

I stood with helpless hands
And watched me lose your love
A little more each day
Then it was gone
And I kept wond'rin'
Just how long until this day would come
Just how long could your pride keep hangin' on

So please don't say you're sorry
Don't say anything
Don't try to say why you must leave
Just go
And today might be the day that you walk away




But you left me a long, long time ago
You left me a long, long time ago

Overall Meaning

In "You Left A Long Long Time Ago," Willie Nelson is lamenting the end of a relationship that has already been over for a while. The singer's partner is leaving him today, but he knows deep down that they've been long gone from the relationship, and it's just the final nail in the coffin. Nelson poignantly captures the sense of sadness and regret that often follows a breakup, particularly when one party has been holding on so long, hoping things will turn around.


The singer is resigned to the ending of the relationship, but there's a lingering sense of heartbreak, especially because he tried so hard to make it work. He watched as his partner's love for him dwindled until it was gone, and he's left questioning how long he had been holding onto something that was no longer there. He implores his partner not to say anything, not to apologize or try to explain, because the relationship has already been over for a long time, and there's no point in prolonging the inevitable.


Overall, "You Left A Long Long Time Ago" is a poignant reflection on the end of a relationship that's already been lost. Even though the singer knows it's for the best, it's clear that he's still hurting from the loss of love and companionship. It's a beautiful and melancholy song that will resonate with anyone who has ever gone through a painful breakup.


Line by Line Meaning

You tell me today that you're leaving
You just announced that you are leaving me.


But just think a while
Take a moment to reflect on your decision.


I'm sure that you must know
You must be aware of what you are doing.


Today might be the day that you walk away
Although it's today, you've been gone for a long time already.


But you left me a long, long time ago
You abandoned me emotionally long before this physical departure.


Today's just the day that ends it all
This is the day that marks the end of our relationship.


Except the usual mem'ries
Only memories will continue to exist after this day.


That always linger on
The memories linger and persist, haunting me.


And I kept wond'rin'
I wondered for a long time.


Just how long until this day would come
I have been wondering when this day would arrive.


Just how long could your pride keep hangin' on
I wondered how long your pride would hold you back.


So please don't say you're sorry
I don't want to hear apologies or excuses.


Don't say anything
Just leave without saying anything.


Don't try to say why you must leave
I don't want to hear your explanation for leaving.


Just go
Leave me alone.


You left me a long, long time ago
You have been gone emotionally for a while now.




Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: WILLIE NELSON

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

Raggedy Ann

Love Willie so much! The older he gets the better looking he is🥰❤️Sounds so beautiful ❤️🥰

Kenneth Gerrard

Thanks very much

Theron Burton

U from Uintah basin Utah? Just curious Ty !!!

RENE PETROVIC

Great song❤, greetings from Croatia...

anella d'ambrosio

​@Kenneth Gerrardciao amico! 🙋‍♀️😍😘💘🌄

Elisabeth Chastain

No one like Willie I'm 67 and just really starting to appreciate all of him.

JoJo

In the deepest part of my heart resides my love for Willie and his music….one of a kind

Racheal haynes

Love you till the day I die Mr. Willie Nelson 💜 You breathe life back into this world and your Legacy will reverb for years to come. Thank you 🙏

Linda Blair

I have loved Willie for decades. So sad, but so beautiful. I'm so glad the songs keep coming. What an amazing gentle voice.🐢

David Holton

Hello how are you? So sorry for the infringe on your privacy. Beautiful song

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