After Louise

She was a good waitress
She could carry eight drinks
But they're not buying anything
Except what she thinks
about at night

"Is someone holding her tight?"
"Is she being treated right?"
I've seen darkness
But I don't know if I can face this
tonight

I was a good server
I listened and I talked
But I deserve better and one day I will walk
And I will stride

With a skip I can barely hide
I was going to be somebody's bride
I've known kindness
it's not like this
but I will see you tonight

She was a good waitress
She hardly made you wait
There's tragic conversation
But there's magic in her plate
and in her eyes

Her cup's always full, realize
Her dream full of steam, smoke, and lies
Let's be honest
I don't know if I can finish this
alright

I was that fine so-and-so
I dabbled and I balked
At a future that glimmered like silver spoons and forks
I'm a knife

That will cut through the tall grass and fight
I've got a good grip, a clear head, and sight
I've known silence, but there's violence
in the cold hush of night

With these walls all around you
Let them see what you can do
These memories may soon hound you
As you let this song fade in
"How've you been?"