PENCILS FOR SALE
(Johnny Cunningham)


Glen Campbell - 1975


The first time I saw him was on 5th and Main
Said his thirst was for wine and he sure could use some change
He said wine can't replace a good woman's love
But one thing it does, son, when she's gone it eases the pain
He spoke of a love he had ten years ago
He said you know I still love her today
And as he walked to the corner this is what I heard him say

Pencils for sale, rings made from nails
I'm sure I got something for you
Hollywood maps for tourists that are only passing through
Pencils for sale, rings made from nails
Look 'em over, take your time
But right now my thirst has never been worse
And I could sure use them nickels and dimes

He said he hung out at most of the bars
That hide scars folks cannot see
For some the wounds that are the deepest
They're the ones locked inside of me
A memory can cut through your soul
Like the cold blade of a jagged knife
And the times I used to hold her
They were the best times of my life

But now it's pencils for sale, rings made from nails
I'm sure I got something for you
Hollywood maps for tourists that are only passing through
I got pencils for sale and rings made from nails
Look 'em over, just take your time
But right now my thirst has never been worse
And I could sure use them nickels and dimes



(Transcribed by Mel Priddle - August 2020)