This was my only attempt at writing lyrics for a song. I would have been about 14 or 15 years old at that time. I don’t have any clue as to what the point of this song was other than my curiosity to see if I had any song-writing abilities.
I submitted the song to Tin Pan Alley, inc., a division of Broadway Song Studios, and they accepted the lyrics under contract. I was underage, and I didn’t want to have to explain the song to my parents, so it never went any further.
I stride through the narrow, crowded streets,
As I feel the subways under my feet.
I walk down that favorite alley of mine,
With memories of the past, so very fine.
Iron Coffin by Paul Gjenvick © 1969
I Turned the corner, and there she was,
standing there, glowing with applause.
I looked at her; she looked at me,
She was so beautiful, I couldn’t see.
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin,
Why do this to me?
All this to set you free!
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin.
I walked to her, she disappeared,
My face was so wet, raining with tears.
I went back home to take a rest,
She came to me, looking her best.
She talked to me with poise and charm,
Realizing that I would do her no harm.
To love and to cherish in harmony,
until death do we part in reality.
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin,
Why do this to me?
All this to set you free!
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin.
The wealthy undertaker at my side,
Don’t you think you’re a little wide?
The trumpets and the bugle cry,
Telling me, I’m to reside!
The sun so dull, the time so late.
Torture and tragedy gave me my fate.
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin,
Why do this to me?
All this to set you free!
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin.
Is this how you repay me?
Iron Coffin, Iron Coffin.
Written by Paul K. Gjenvick © 1969
Revised and Edited 1971.