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Old Wooden Fencepost

by Prairie Anthem

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about

Steve and his wife, Deb, were driving down some country roads one day and noticed how much charm and beauty there was in some of the old wooden fenceposts. They were put there years ago with a distinct purpose and it was clear that the purpose for some of them had changed. Some were severely weathered and leaning, some still had the wire fencing attached. As they caught the wind the fencepost and wire fencing began to randomly and helplessly move as if they were dancing. They were attached by rusty staples that were still strong enough to hold them together. Birds would find comfort while resting on them and that seemed to be their newfound purpose – providing a resting place.

Deb and Steve co-wrote this song. Through the use of allegory they substituted the fencepost for Steve, the wire fencing for Deb, the wind represents life’s struggles, the rusty old staples represent their marriage vows they took 40+ years ago, their 3 adult children represent the weary winged bird as they visit and find comfort and some parental love. Their purpose, as is the case with most people, has changed over time, but the main thing is that as we age we still have purpose.

So, whether you hear this as a song about inanimate objects or the deeper allegorical meaning, we hope you enjoy it. We believe there is much beauty and purpose in old things and old people.

lyrics

Old Wooden Fencepost


An old wooden fencepost; weathered and gray, once stood with a purpose now just stands in the way
Once tall and strong, so long ago, now worn out and weakened as the years took its toll

Some old wire fencing clings to its back, some rusty old staples keep it intact
It tugs on the fencepost when the winds blow, but the old wooden fencepost refuses to let go

So they dance, dance in the wind, randomly, helplessly, swinging; swaying again
They dance, dance in the wind, the old wire fencing tugs on the old post and then
They dance in the wind

After all of those years with a purpose defined, their role has now changed with the passage of time
Surviving the struggles, they have endured, now they serve as a refuge for the weary winged bird

And they dance, dance in the wind, randomly, helplessly swinging; swaying again
They dance, dance in the wind, the old wire fencing tugs on the old post and then
They dance in the wind

credits

released November 19, 2021
Music and Lyrics written by Steve and Deb Poynter

Guitar and Vocals - Steve Poynter
Harmony Vocals - Brad Borg

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Prairie Anthem Minneapolis, Minnesota

Prairie Anthem is the vision of two musical artists with a lifetime of experience and a love for putting words to music. Inspired by singer-songwriters like John Prine, Jim Croce, Gordon Lightfoot, Guy Clark, they strive to write songs that tell authentic stories and share simple truths. Add the subtle interplay of two guitars supporting soaring vocal harmonies and you have a sound uniquely theirs ... more

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