[Verse 1] I found you folded on the dill A green comma against the sill I carried you in both my hands And set a jar beside the plants [Verse 2] A leaf each morning, drops of rain I marked the glass with dates and names Seven small days, I watched you feed And thought I knew what you would need [Chorus] Little friend, I kept the lid ajar I thought your wings would fill the jar But the brown hush held its shape And no bright wings came through the pane [Verse 3] You tied yourself in a paper room The days went by; the leaves lost green I moved the jar into the sun And told my sister, “Soon, it’s done” [Bridge] Then winter light crossed the kitchen wall I tapped the glass; there came no call I opened it beneath the tree And left the small shell quietly [Chorus] Little friend, I kept the lid ajar I thought your wings would fill the jar But the brown hush held its shape And no bright wings came through the pane [Outro] I still save leaves beside the door For someone I can’t care for more
