The Ribbon on the Handle

[Verse] The old iron bell rings out a mournful sound Another train departs, another heart unbound Your suitcase packed with dreams, a ticket in my hand Chasing work out west, across this dusty land [Pre-Chorus] The platform's cold and empty now Just fallen leaves that dance and bow I clutch the letter, worn and creased A promise of a future peace [Chorus] Farewell, my love, the whistle blows so low A faded blue ribbon on the handle, watchin' you go This autumn mornin' mist, a tear I can't quite hide Leaving me here with echoes of your stride [Verse] I watch the engine smoke begin to climb Against the pale sky, marking out the time Remembering your smile, the warmth within your gaze Lost in these lonely, quiet days [Pre-Chorus] The sun tries to break through the grey But shadows linger, come what may I trace the rails with tear-filled eyes Beneath these vast, indifferent skies [Chorus] Farewell, my love, the whistle blows so low A faded blue ribbon on the handle, watchin' you go This autumn mornin' mist, a tear I can't quite hide Leaving me here with echoes of your stride [Bridge] Beyond the cornfields, where the tracks all bend My hopes and worries, they extend Will this long journey bring you back to me? Or will I just be left to memory? [Verse] A gust of wind, a lonely, rustling sound Scatters the dry leaves across the hallowed ground Where your strong hand last held mine, a moment sweet and brief Now only the silence brings relief [Chorus] Farewell, my love, the whistle blows so low A faded blue ribbon on the handle, watchin' you go This autumn mornin' mist, a tear I can't quite hide Leaving me here with echoes of your stride [Outro]