Back in New York City Last time you walked with me Peacoats and fedoras Jazz music played for us Cool breeze in the park Stiff drinks after dark How was I to know How was I to know That'd be the last time That I'd see your face You put your hand on my shoulder The last time you'd grow older How was I to know Back in New York City Last time you talked with me Of past recollection A lifetime of connections Of people that you missed And jokes of bucket lists How was I to know How was I to know That'd be the last time That I'd see your face You put your arm around my shoulder The last time you'd grow older
Oh how was I to know And the thought that I feel Is so painfully real Your soul's everywhere Like snow hanging in the air The lessons you left behind They're always on my mind The beating in my heart And a dying work of art But how was I to know That'd be the last time That I'd see your face Without your arm around my shoulder This world is so much colder How was I to know How was I to know Back in New York City This time you're not with me But a love that's undenied Big bright eyes by my side A new world to explore My daughter to adore How was I to know