how the willow weeps
in the wind it sings
though we've heard that song before
but I planted this one
just last spring
outside my kitchen door
for I knew it was your favorite tree
and I knew that it grew fast
but I think it all now vanity
to think that tree would last

and I planted it
beside the spring
its thirst like mine well known
and the crocuses
and daffodils
to surprise you when they'd grown
and the speckled bird that landed free
and softly built its place
but I think it all now vanity
to think I saw your face

how I wish I had
a willow wand
to burn this memory
or burn the state
of californ-i-ay
in a wicker effigy
for I found the feathers of the speckled bird
where the fox its hunger filled
and the willow weeps although unheard
to think I love you still

and the willow thinks it vanity
to think I love you still