I was standin' by my window yesterday morning
Without a thought of sorrow or of care
When I saw the postman comin' up the pathway
With such a smiling face and jolly air.
He rang the bell and whistled as he waited
Then he said; "Good morning to you, Jack"
But he little knew the sorrow that he brought me
When he handed me a letter edged in black.
With trembling hands I took the letter from him
I open it and sifted what it said:
"Come home my boy, your dear old daddy wants you
Come home my boy, your dear old mother's dead."
"The last words your mother ever uttered
Tell my boy I want him to come back
My eyes are blurred, my poor old heart is breaking
As, I write to you this letter edged in black."
"Those angry words I wish I'd never spoken
You know I didn't mean them, don't you, Jack
May the angels bear me witness, I am asking
Your forgiveness in this letter edged in black."...
Lyrics Page
The Letter Edged In Black
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Jul 23, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Jim Reeves's 'A Letter Edged in Black' tells the story of a man receiving a heartbreaking letter from his father, informing him that his mother has passed away. The song captures the regret of harsh words spoken and the longing for forgiveness. It reflects on family, loss, and the pain of unresolved relationships. While not explicitly Christian, the themes of repentance and seeking forgiveness align with Christian values. The narrative is a poignant reminder of the importance of reconciliation and the sorrow of missed opportunities to make amends.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team