Lady With The Fan Lyrics - Bruce Hornsby

Let my inspiration flow in token rhyme, suggesting rhythm 

That will not forsake you, till my tale is told and done 

While the firelight's aglow, strange shadows in the flames will grow 

Till things we've never seen will seem familiar 

Shadows of a sailor, forming winds both foul and fair all swarm 

In Carlisle, he loved a lady many years ago 

Here beside him stands a man, a soldier by the looks of him 

Who came through many fights, who lost in love 

While the story teller speaks, a door within the fire creaks 

And suddenly flies open and a girl is standing there 

Eyes alight with glowing hair, all that fancy paints as fair 

Takes her fan and throws it to the lion's den 

Which of you to gain me, tell, will risk uncertain pains of hell 

I will not forgive you if you will not take the chance 

Soldier gave at least a try, soldier being much too wise 

Strategy was his strength and not disaster