This week, Helen at This Thing Called Life One Word at A Time has chosen the theme of ‘Obsession’ for Song Lyric Sunday.

Of course, there are lots of songs that deal with obsession – mostly related to love (and lust) – and some of them are downright creepy. However, I think that this song stays on the acceptable side of the line.

I was a little surprised to find, on reading the small print this morning, that it’s by Bob Dylan (yes, again; sorry). It never appeared on any of Dylan’s official releases, although it was to be found on the Bootleg series, which explains why its true provenance passed me by.

I’ve always associated it with Rod Stewart, though. It appeared on the album ‘Never A Dull Moment’, which was a staple of the early years with Madame. Happy days (still).

Perhaps it’s the color of the sun cut flat
An’ cov’rin’ the crossroads I’m standing at
Or maybe it’s the weather or something like that
But mama, you been on my mind

I don’t mean trouble, please don’t put me down or get upset
I am not pleadin’ or sayin’, “I can’t forget”
I do not walk the floor bowed down an’ bent, but yet
Mama, you been on my mind

Even though my mind is hazy an’ my thoughts they might be narrow
Where you been don’t bother me nor bring me down in sorrow
It don’t even matter to me where you’re wakin’ up tomorrow
But mama, you’re just on my mind

I am not askin’ you to say words like “yes” or “no”
Please understand me, I got no place for you t’ go
I’m just breathin’ to myself, pretendin’ not that I don’t know
Mama, you been on my mind

When you wake up in the mornin’, baby, look inside your mirror
You know I won’t be next to you, you know I won’t be near
I’d just be curious to know if you can see yourself as clear
As someone who has had you on his mind

Written by Bob Dylan

Song Lyric Sunday 26 November 2017