I started writing You and the Moon on Day 24 of the WeCreateNow project. The story prompt and photo both came from Victoria (a rare phenomenon): “Dawn and dusk are filled with the sun’s amber hues, but it is the moon to which we speak.”
There’s something very ancient and mysterious about the idea of speaking to the moon. It took me back in time, to the days when I used to code name boys as Greek gods in my diary. So I wrote about one I called Helios, and my high school sweetheart.
It was one of those relationships where we both carried on longer than we should have. He was hesitant to let go and pursue big, grown-up goals that scared him. I clung to him desperately, hoping he’d come to his senses and realize I was “the one”. Every time we met, it felt like it could be the last time; an excruciating, exhilarating pattern for almost three years. I couldn’t be angry so I romanticized the pain, and those are the memories I mined for this song.
When we did finally go our separate ways for good, I was bitter for a very long time. But life wound up being longer, and eventually I moved on. Today I wouldn’t say that we’re friends, but we talk every now and then, texting birthday wishes or movie recommendations. Yes, I sent him the song; he said it made him smile.
I want to thank my YouNow Kimmunity for showing this song so much love and for encouraging me to release it. Special thanks to Kevin, who recorded his version before I even recorded mine, and to Nikki for her beautiful fan art. Finally, a million thank-yous to Val aka VeryLemonyGreen, who created the lyric video you see below. Val is a tremendously talented artist, singer, and animator. I feel blessed to have met her online and I am so thrilled each time I have the chance to commission her work or collab with her on-stream.
You and the Moon is available everywhere you listen to music. I hope it finds a home on your lullaby playlists, and in your hearts. KM
You and the Moon
The day is done
There goes the sun sinking into dusk
He waves goodbye
His amber eye winking as he fades from us
And I
I wait
Wait for the moonlight to rise
Her blue shine is my gentle guide
When everyone else has shut the blinds
I keep my window open wide
And I stay awake
And wait for you
And the moon
A secret place
A soft embrace lingers on my skin
And I, I have no choice
I hear your voice
Whispering of grace and sin
And I
I wait
Wait for the moonlight to rise
Her blue shine is my gentle guide
When everyone else has shut the blinds
I keep my window open wide
And I stay awake
And wait for you
And the moon
Ooh
Ooh
Who cares what’s right?
We can’t be wrong
I’m not afraid
But you never stay
So I
I wait
Wait for the moonlight to rise
Her blue shine is my gentle guide
When everyone else has shut the blinds
I keep my window open wide
And I stay awake
And wait for you
And the moon