See the lyrics of “Days Between” by Grateful Dead and it was first performed live on February 22, 1993.
[Verse 1]
There were days
And there were days
And there were days between
Summer flies and August dies
The world grows dark and mean
Comes the shimmer of the moon
On black infested trees
The singing man is at his song
The holy on their knees
The reckless are out wrecking
The timid plead their pleas
No one knows much more of this
Than anyone can see anyone can see[Verse 2]
There were days
And there were days
And there were days besides
When phantom ships with phantom sails
Set to sea on phantom tides
Comes the lightning of the sun
On bright unfocused eyes
The blue of yet another day
A springtime wet with sighs
A hopeful candle lingers
In the land of lullabies
Where headless horsemen vanish
With wild and lonely cries lonely cries[Verse 3]
There were days
And there were days
And there were days I know
When all we ever wanted
Was to learn and love and grow
Once we grew into our shoes
We told them where to go
Walked halfway around the world
On promise of the glow
Stood upon a mountain top
Walked barefoot in the snow
Gave the best we had to give
How much we’ll never know we’ll never know[Verse 4]
There were days
And there were days
And there were days between
Polished like a golden bowl
The finest ever seen
Hearts of Summer held in trust
Still tender, young and green
Left on shelves collecting dust
Not knowing what they mean
Valentines of flesh and blood
As soft as velveteen
Hoping love would not forsake
The days that lie between lie between
About Days Between Lyrics
“Days Between” by the Grateful Dead is a poignant song that reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
Written by Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter, the song evokes a sense of nostalgia and introspection, with lyrics that capture the essence of life’s transient joys and sorrows.
The title “Days Between” refers to the literal days between Garcia’s birthday on August 1 and his untimely death on August 9, 1995.
For many fans, this period has taken on a profound significance, symbolizing a time for reflection, remembrance, and appreciation of Garcia’s enduring legacy.
The song’s structure is unique, moving from an opening theme through a building chord progression that returns to the original motif.
The music itself climbs laboriously out of the shadows, growing and peaking with each verse, only to fall back each time, mirroring the ebb and flow of life.
“Days Between” is considered one of the last great collaborations between Garcia and Hunter, and it stands as a testament to their enduring creative partnership and the Grateful Dead’s lasting impact on music and culture.