Lamp in the Window

Said to have been written by Mayor Samwise Gamgee for the wedding of Meriadoc the Magnificent, this tune has been a favourite at hobbit gatherings for many years. The first verse is usually sung without accompaniment; musicians typically join in on the second verse, and some may choose to play a musical interlude between the second and third verses. Traditionally, the third verse is played in a higher key to give a suggestion of the light winning over the darkness.

A lamp in the window, burning through the darkness,
Calling the traveller home.
Although he can't see it, walking in the darkness,
He knows that it waits for him there.

The wind may be blowing, snow may be falling,
Mighty mountains rise before him, rushing rivers behind,
There's a lamp in the window, shining in the darkness,
Calling the traveller home.

His journey may lead him to lands drenched in darkness,
Where Sun, Moon or stars are not found.
He knows that behind him, shining in the darkness,
The lamp in the window still burns.

The dark foes are waiting, seeking his blood,
Their fell voices calling, with no hope ahead,
There's a lamp in the window, shining in the darkness,
Calling the traveller home.

The battle behind him, he turns his face homeward,
Seeking the light of the dawn.
Although he can't see it, walking in the darkness,
The lamp shines to beckon him on.

The wind may be blowing, rain may be falling,
Mighty mountains rise behind him, rushing rivers ahead,
There's a lamp in the window, shining in the darkness,
Calling the traveller home.

(slower) The lamp in the window, shining in the darkness,
Welcomes the traveller home.

[A/N Please remember that this music is protected by copyright law.]