Story Behind The Song

When I was performing in clubs in the Detroit area (in the last century), the concept of open mic nights took off. One of the participants was an especially energetic fellow whose eyes evidenced his mature age but whose demeanor reeked of adolescence. He made it clear he wanted to perform with me off-stage as well as on. I confess I considered it but my instincts screamed at me not to cross the friendship line. Oh, but I loved hearing his line - it was a beauty.

Song Description

Pick-up line

Lyrics

The Line

V1: Winters he spent dreaming about summers playing ball
I saw him in the springtime and I met him in the fall
When he asked for a reservation for some private recreation
But I knew exactly what he had in mind
I'd seen the look, I read the book, I heard the line

V2: I knew he was much older but he looked just like a teen
With eyes that bore right through and let me know I'd been seen
He said he'd like to be a lover and would I take him under cover
But I'd rather have him be a friend of mine
I'd seen the look, I read the book, I heard the line

Bridge: Oh, that line, that lovely line
It ages with grace like a fine wine
If the truth would be told it never grows old
So very endearing, I don't want to stop hearing that line

V3: So he settled for a moment of my closely guarded time
He asked for the philosophy I designate as mine
I told him life is for the living and the gift is in the giving
And I lost him when I said my love was free
I lost him when I told him he'd lose me
I'd seen the look, read the book, heard the line
I've been the one, you have your fun, I'll hold the line