Ripple

Lyrics: Robert Hunter
Music: Jerry Garcia

In the studio outtakes released on "The Angel's Share", the working title of this song was "Hand Me Down", becoming "Ripple" when the album American Beauty was released.

If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine (note 1)
And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung
Would you hear my voice come through the music?
Would you hold it near, as it were your own?

It's a hand-me-down, the thoughts are broken (note 2)
Perhaps they're better left unsung
I don't know, don't really care (note 3)
Let there be songs to fill the air (note 3) (note 4)

Ripple in still water
When there is no pebble tossed
Nor wind to blow

Reach out your hand if your cup be empty
If your cup is full may it be again
Let it be known there is a fountain
That was not made by the hands of man

There is a road, no simple highway
Between the dawn and the dark of night
And if you go, no one may follow
That path is for your steps alone

Ripple in still water
When there is no pebble tossed
Nor wind to blow

You who choose to lead must follow
But if you fall, you fall alone
If you should stand, then who's to guide you?
If I knew the way, I would take you home

The wisest man is but a pilgrim
He will not claim to know the way
He will not promise dreams of glory
His words are few and his ways are kind