If you’ve heard Portland: The Album, you know that in some songs, the city itself is the focus of the song, whereas in others it’s more of a backdrop.  Well, this week’s song is strong on the side of Portland-as-backdrop.  The idea came to me this afternoon as I was struggling to find an idea for a song, and my only opportunity to record was while my entire family--my spouse Jennifer and my two sons Liam and Graham--were all sleeping.  And when that’s the case, I can’t sing forth with quite as much gusto as I usually do.  So I began with the idea of a quiet song, and then it became a quiet night, and next thing I knew I was singing this quiet, fun little love song.  So, enjoy “A Quiet Night In Portland.”  Something louder next week, I promise!

Lyrics:

On a quiet night in Portland,

I went walking in the rain.

Just looking for some answers,

Trying to find myself again.

(Quiet night)

I walked on for miles and miles,

'Til I came to Forest Park.

Then I started hiking upward,

Paying no mind of the dark.

(Quiet night)

And then I saw a sign,

Way up in the skies.

Meant for you and me,

Only for our eyes.

(Quiet night)

Then I ran across the city

Hoping I would find you soon.

Went to your apartment rushing

In the light of a lovers’ moon.

(Quiet night)

You met me at the door,

Saw the look upon my face,

And you put your arms around me

In a moment of unearned grace.

And then I saw a sign

Right there in your eyes.

Meant for you and me:

A magical surprise.

(Quiet night)

On a quiet night in Portland,

We decided it was right.

The city twinkled brightly

On that quiet, quiet night.

(Quiet night)