Mother dear sorry I haven't written in so long
Don't pass on my belongings or give me up for dead
I've just been sleep-walking and three or four months on
I've wandered miles with my eyes shut and still don't feel rested
A thousand times I've read the lines you wrote for me
Reminding how you are a ear to lend
Mother dear here's a promise
I'll write home again
Mother dear it's not that I got broken hands
But it's hard to stop them shaking for long enough to write
Please don't fear for me for my future or my plans
Don't lie awake a-worrying all through endless nights
The shame and guilt and tears you split
That I have caused for never having thought to use a pen
Mother dear here's a promise
You'll hear from me again
Mother dear the truth is I've forgotten how to lie
That's my reason not for speaking and living in denial
Thank you for still whispering my name in every prayer
This one's for you and for neglected mothers anywhere
I'd just like to apologise I realise now
I may have ostracised my oldest friend
Mother dear here's a promise
You'll hear from me again
Mother dear here's a promise
I'll write home again