The Shades Of Night

(album: Mr. Joe Jackson Presents: Max Champion In 'What A Racket!' - 2023)

It happened one evening, a Wednesday in spring
With my day's work done
I thought I'd go for a walk, just to savour the breeze

Windows were lighted
And people excited
For nights of fun
But their curtains weren't drawn
Someone really should warn them
One can't help but see what one sees

The shades of night were falling fast
Around all the streets and the squares
It's all too easy, strolling past
To see what your neighbours are doing in there
They're not playing pianos, or having their tea
Not talking, or reading a book
The shades of night were falling fast
But I still got a pretty good look

Now I swear I'm not prying
Or snooping or spying
That's not my way
Until I spotted a head full of lovely dark curls
She looked familiar
Yes, more than just similar!
As clear as day!
And I stopped in the street
As my heart skipped a beat
And I heard myself say, 'That's my girl!'

The shades of night were falling fast
Around all the streets and the squares
It's all too easy, strolling past
To see what your neighbours are doing in there
They're not playing pianos, or having their tea
Not talking, or reading a book
The shades of night were falling fast
But I still got a pretty good look

We were to marry, I thought I would carry her down the aisle
Then in one moment, my dreams almost turned to despair
Now I'm for the Navy
And who knows but maybe
That's more my style
With a girl in each port
I won't spare a thought
For that evening I went walking where

The shades of night were falling fast
Around all the streets and the squares
It's all too easy, strolling past
To see what your neighbours are doing in there

Oh, it's a sad story, isn't it, ladies and gentlemen?
Still, every cloud has a silver lining
And I used to say it all will turn out for the best
So, enjoy that special twilight time
Mind where you go and which way you look