Fountain of Sorrow

Jackson Browne

About Fountain of Sorrow

"Fountain of Sorrow" is a song written and performed by American singer-songwriter Jackson Browne. Released as the second single from his 1974 album Late for the Sky, at 6:42, it was the longest song on the album, and the longest song Browne had yet released ("For Everyman" was approximately 6:20). Two minutes were removed from the single release of "Fountain of Sorrow", but the song still failed to chart on Billboard's Hot 100.


Year:
2004
117 
#3

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Looking through some photographs I found inside a drawer
I was taken by a photograph of you
There were one or two I know that you would have liked a little more
But they didn't show your spirit quite as true

You were turning 'round to see who was behind you
And I took your childish laughter by surprise
And at the moment that my camera happened to find you
There was just a trace of sorrow in your eyes

Now the things that I remember seem so distant and so small
Though it hasn't really been that long a time
What I was seeing wasn't what was happening at all
Although for a while, our path did seem to climb
When you see through love's illusions, there lies the danger
And your perfect lover just looks like a perfect fool
So you go running off in search of a perfect stranger
While the loneliness seems to spring from your life
Like a fountain from a pool

Fountain of sorrow, fountain of light
You've known that hollow sound of your own steps in flight
You've had to hide sometimes, but now you're all right
And it's good to see your smiling face tonight

Now for you and me it may not be that hard to reach our dreams
But that magic feeling never seems to last
And while the future's there for anyone to change, still you know it seems
It would be easier sometimes to change the past
I'm just one or two years and a couple of changes behind you
In my lessons at love's pain and heartache school
Where if you feel too free and you need something to remind you
There's this loneliness springing up from your life
Like a fountain from a pool

Fountain of sorrow, fountain of light
You've known that hollow sound of your own steps in flight

You've had to hide sometimes but now you're all right
And it's good to see your smiling face tonight

Fountain of sorrow, fountain of light
You've known that hollow sound of your own steps in flight
You've had to struggle, you've had to fight
To keep understanding and compassion in sight
You could be laughing at me, you've got the right
But you go on smiling so clear and so bright

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Jackson Browne

Clyde Jackson Browne (born October 9, 1948) is an American singer-songwriter and musician who has sold over 17 million albums in the United States alone. more »

17 fans

Written by: JACKSON BROWNE

Lyrics © Jackson Browne/Swallow Turn Music/Night Kitchen Music/Open Window Music

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Background Information
"Fountain of Sorrow" is a reflective song written and performed by influential American singer-songwriter, Jackson Browne.
Chart Performance
The song was released in 1974 as a part of his second album, "Late for the Sky". It did not have significant chart performance, but it became one of Browne's most popular songs in his catalog over time due to its profound and relatable lyrics.
Inspiration
It is widely reported that the song was inspired by Browne's relationship with his former girlfriend, singer and artist Joni Mitchell.
Theme
The song is about understanding and accepting the pain and suffering that's an integral part of life and relationships. It encourages listeners to learn from their past experiences and use them as stepping stones to grow and evolve.
Impact
"Fountain of Sorrow" is considered one of Browne's most introspective and insightful compositions. It has been highly regarded for its raw, honest lyrics and soulful melody, making it a touchstone for many fans.
Live Performances
During live performances, Browne often shares the story behind the song, further increasing its resonance with listeners.
Cover Version
In 2011, a cover of "Fountain of Sorrow" was included in the tribute album "Looking Into You: A Tribute to Jackson Browne".
Songwriting Process
Browne is known to draw from personal experiences in his songwriting. In an interview, he revealed that he often revisits his songs, changing parts of them or adding to them as his perceptions and understandings evolve over time.
Relevance
Even though it was written and released in the 1970s, "Fountain of Sorrow" continues to resonate with listeners today due to its timeless and universal theme of heartbreak and healing.
Music Composition
The song is driven by acoustic guitar and piano, which are complemented by subtle touches of slide guitar and backing vocals that reinforce its reflective and melancholic mood.

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