Sammy uses some odd timings in the song, like throwing in an extra 2/4 measure between alternate verses,
but it works perfectly well in 4/4 signature.
Capo on 2 for the original on the"Song For Patty" album (it will still be off with the original if you
try to play along due to a change in tape speed during mastering).
Capo on 3 for the version on "Sammy Walker"
Intro: G D C D x 2
G
I'm gonna catch me a ride on the subway car
D
That's heading for the Old North Star
C G D
And leave my troubles stranded on the mainland
G
I'm gonna crown the god of night with light
D
And pull myself clean outta sight
C D
And turn the phony world I live to sand
G
I would gladly sail away
D
And never mind a word you say
C G D
They're just the figments of your imagination
G
Cast your riddles at my head
D
About the way I must be fed
C D
Upon your rules and schools of institutions
Chorus:
G
Why Lord why
C
Were the mountains built so high?
D C
And the shoals of the Sea
G D
Sometimes get lonely?
G
Why Lord why
C
Must I learn to testify?
D
When all I want to be
C G
Is just a catcher in the rye?
G
It's hard to dream within a scheme
D
That says your soul can't be redeemed
C G D
And Silent Night is heard outside my window
G
Days are long and ways are short
D
And nights are left with no resort
C D
Except to listen to the lonesome wind blow
Chorus:
G
Why Lord why
C
Were the mountains built so high?
D C
And the shoals of the Sea
G D
Sometimes get lonely?
G
Why Lord why
C
Must I learn to testify?
D
When all I want to be
C G
Is just a catcher in the rye?
G
If you can't seem to find the aim
D
Of the rules set for the game
C G D
They'll throw you in a school of restitution
G
They'll look you in the eye and grin
D
And say "I'd like to be your friend"
C D
And wear a sign reads "Long Live Execution"
Chorus:
G
Why Lord why
C
Were the mountains built so high?
D C
And the shoals of the Sea
G D
Sometimes get lonely?
G
Why Lord why
C
Must I learn to testify?
D
When all I want to be
C G
Is just a catcher in the rye?