Story Behind The Song
This is all part of the album, East Farewell, and sort of sets the mood for the first side. Sort of light but has an underlying nervousness to it.
Song Description
This is the second song on East Farewell and descibes Natalie's house, mother and surroundings. This is the first half of a meldley that consists of The Boarding House and Sweet Natalie
| Song Length |
2:21 |
Genre |
Unique - General, Country - General |
| Tempo |
Medium (111 - 130) |
Lead Vocal |
Male Vocal |
| Mood |
Diplomatic, Sociable |
Subject |
Daughter, Town, Village |
| Language |
English |
Era |
1970 - 1979 |
Lyrics
The Boarding House
©J.D. Carroll
Creative Ventures Music
Mrs. Mallard ran a boarding house down by the Lake Shore Drive.
She'd reserve a place on the porch as soon as you'd arrive.
She never asked where you were going, or where you went
just as long as by Friday evening, you'd pay the rent.
The house was old and sentimental,
gingerbread, off-white.
The third floor ceiling paint was peeling and the doors didn't close real tight.
But there always was a fire burning and all the time heads were turning
when Natalie, Sweet Natalie,
entered.
Mr. Mallard passed away several years ago.
He had a sickness that stole his
quickness, but he never let anyone know.
Mrs. M. used to condemn him, he had a flask to befriend him,
and together they spent their evenings
laughing.
Ho-Ho-Ho
Now, if you ever take a room in the house by
the Lake Shore Drive
just a few words should be heard to help you
survive.
There's no smoking in the beds, six o'clock
you'll be fed,
and one more thing, if you're a boarder,
you ought to not talk to her daughter.. .