Collabtunes · Memorabilia
POEMS NOT YET RELEASED - PAGE 1 OF 19
The pages by the 16 kinds on the whole pie. This kind (W4, writing branch) has 642 pieces on these pages. Inside a kind: oldest to newest, by the year each piece sits on in Tom's story, year by year. Pieces with no date found yet come last. The same year: by number. The heading above a piece is its group. Every piece has exactly one full listing; none lost.
Also in this kind, for adults only: 1 rated X, 6 rated NC-17, 7 rated R.
35 pieces on this page · every one an original · every photograph, nothing hidden · dashed lines are yours to fill
FULL
Item 360
Why am I lonely why am I sad
In one sentence: One of Tom's earliest poems, 'Why am I lonely why am I sad,' handwritten on a lined sheet and kept with a napkin labelled 'REAL FIRST POEM' in red, about 1996-1998.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
UNPUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
One of Tom's earliest poems, Why am I lonely why am I sad (then catching himself sounding like Dr. Seuss), handwritten on a lined sheet and kept with a napkin labelled REAL FIRST POEM in red.
- Why it matters
- One of Tom's very first poems, Why am I lonely why am I sad (catching himself sounding like Dr. Seuss), kept with a napkin he labelled REAL FIRST POEM in red - where the poet behind the 34 Albums started; it is in none of his albums or books.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- First poems ; Unpublished poems ; Loneliness & Solitude ; Humor
- Published in
- PREVIOUSLY UNPUBLISHEDSearched against the 34 albums, every book and Poems By Tom - found in none of them
- Age when written
- about 1996-1998 (age 17 to 20)best guess - not yet proved: dated from this piece's own photos and words and the dated books
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1997
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The words on this page
[on the napkin, in red:] REAL
FIRST
POEM
---
Why am I lonely why am I sad
Why do I feel like everythings bad?
Oops, I started off wrong sounding like Dr. Seuss
If I go on like this I'll need a muse
My mind is spinning like a clock
My emotions run deep for Kristin
If God really likes me he'll cut me some slack,
If Kristin's an angel [struck: then] please take her back.
To me she is yet here she stays
Just what will I do in 70 days?
I'll need a car too far to bike
Lynnfield to [struck: New Hampshire, written above it: MAINE] is quite a hike.
I'll think of that later, too much to bear
The message of my poem is I really care.
How long will I wait? to the bitter end
only 6 months said my psychic friend
Scorpio and Cancer; signs match real well
[struck: or maybe not, written above it: I've actually prayed so] only time will tell.
IF you were mine I'd need no liquor or drug
for they'ld be replaced with a kiss and a hug
HALF
Item 132
Beats Growing Corn
In one sentence: Tom's comic handwritten poem 'Beats Growing Corn' ('I'm just a farmer, growing marijuana'), on a lined sheet listed at M4 in his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten comic poem BEATS GROWING CORN ("I'm just a farmer, growing marijuana"), on a lined sheet - listed at M4 in his early yellow binder (age 18 to 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's comic poem BEATS GROWING CORN ("I'm just a farmer, growing marijuana"), listed at M4 in his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Yellow binder (early poems) ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; A Lifetime Of Rhyme (2020) ; Funny ; Drugs & Alcohol
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Brian Rainstorm: Poetry Not Dead (2014)
A Lifetime Of Rhyme (2020)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line M4, 'Marijuana Farmer' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
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The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
I'm just a farmer, Growing Marijuana,
I don't wanna harm ya, not tryin' to alarm ya.
Just here to tell ya that I got a new shotgun,
With the name on it of anyone caught tryin' to
steal my crops and run-
I've built some giant fences
to use as my defenses
Against any one here not {struck: usin'} coming to
their senses.
My grand's in the tower - feelin' like
King of the hill,
She uses real bullets now-set not on
stun but kill.
My wife is in the greenhouse pickin'
youngest in the yard, all my crops
While my he son's keeps an eye out
for the cops.
I'm not gonna harm ya, not tryin' to alarm ya
just be weary when visit a marijuana farmer.
Winter time around this place, you
could it feel any higger,
Whenever we get cold we just toss
more plants in the fire.
The heats always set between 80 and 95,
FULL
Item 159
I just felt it - a revelation
In one sentence: Tom's untitled cursive poem 'I just felt it - a revelation,' about a sudden sensation from a higher power, on a cream three-hole-punched loose-leaf sheet, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten untitled poem 'I just felt it - a revelation', about a sudden sensation from a higher power, in cursive on a cream 3-hole-punched loose-leaf sheet.
- Why it matters
- Tom's handwritten untitled poem 'I just felt it - a revelation', about a sudden feeling from a higher power, printed in Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Poems not on the albums ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology 2011 and 2012 ; Faith ; Inspiring
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line F4, 'False Alarm' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- Same words
- also written out as number 1976matched on the words by machine - Tom confirms
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
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The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
I just felt it - a revelation,
From a higher power, a new sensation
Did you feel it- small vibration,
a complete focus of concentration
Feelin dizzy - head is spinning
Could this be it ? a new begining ?
Not really sure why I'm feelin it again, this way
Oh God, wish {struck: I didn't siss}, please don't take me away.
Hear a lost voice in my ear.
Try to listen, words aren't clear
Wish I knew what {struck: <s>oo</s>} {struck: or maybe it's "on"} saying,
It's almost time to start praying.
Heard something outside rather frightening,
Thought is was someone throwing lightening,
I just had a heart attack,
But my Religion just gave me back.
He decided not to take me away,
Down under where the Devils play.
I had the shivers or maybe the shakes
Just one more chance please I'll do what it takes.
I got a problem and you got the cure,
I'm so unstable yet you're so secure,
Did you finally get the better of me,
As I look around there're no Angels I see.
Do I have time for just one final plea?
My last dying wish is burial at sea.
Thank my lucky stars {struck: for} just a false alarm,
I was never really in danger, far away from harm.
Must say I'll sleep good tonight,
Just one favor can you leave on the light?
In one sentence: Tom's green-ink poem 'Living In Sin?' ('I'm gonna buy me a guitar / Maybe someday I'll learn how to play') on loose-leaf under a faint outlined title, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten poem LIVING IN SIN?, beginning 'I'm gonna buy me a guitar / Maybe someday I'll learn how to play', written in green ink on loose-leaf under a faint outlined title.
- Why it matters
- Tom's handwritten poem LIVING IN SIN?, beginning 'I'm gonna buy me a guitar / Maybe someday I'll learn how to play' - the young writer dreaming of making music - printed as BECAUSE YOU'RE MY BABY in Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 and later anthologies.proved - the words are in Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Poems not on the albums ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology 2011 and 2012 ; Music ; Dreams ; Lovedraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- The first piece, LIVING IN SIN?: written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line B4, 'Because you're my baby' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23. This binder line dates the first piece only; the other pieces on this card: I've wrote too many sad, sad songs (its own card 745: written at age 18 to 23, binder line W1)
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
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The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
I'm gonna buy me a guitar
Maybe someday I'll learn how to play
I've already written the lyrics
So I know exactly what I'll say
Its taken so long to get where I'm at
I'm still looking for a place where I can lay my hat
I'd like to shake your daddy's hand because he
raised you right
I'd like to kiss your momma for tucking you in at night
If you fall I'll pick you up - because your my baby
when you're down I'll cheer you up - because you're my baby
I'll do my best to bring you back to earth - when you're
goin crazy
And I'll do it every time you ask - because my love's not lazy
Everybody needs a helping hand - sometimes even two
when you need me I'll be there and I know I can count on you
when I cry you'll dry my tears - that's what lovers do
Just as child needs his mom when he falls down and
scrapes his knee
The touch of your lips makes my pain go away - that's
what your kisses do to me
In one sentence: Tom's cursive poem 'Tomorrow' ('So much to say so little ink'), kept with a torn note in his hand: 'I would argue this is my first poem', about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten poem Tomorrow, beginning 'So much to say so little ink', in cursive on both sides of a lined sheet, kept with a torn note slip in his hand reading 'I would argue this is my first poem'.
- Why it matters
- Tom kept this poem TOMORROW ('So much to say so little ink') with a slip in his own hand saying 'I would argue this is my first poem' - by his own word, possibly the very first poem of the songwriter; printed in Tom's Anthology (September 18, 2011).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom's first poem ; Poems not on the albums ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Writing ; Youth ; Hope
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom's Anthology, September 18, 2011
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line T4, 'Tomorrow' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The words on this page
I WOULD ARGUE THIS IS MY first poem
Tomorrow
So much to say so little ink,
Too much confusion its hard to think.
Is this a poem or is it a song?
Don't yet know so i'll play along.
Try to gather how I feel,
Like Mr. Jones or the man of steel,
Who am I gonna be when I get old?
Don't wanna be bought and don't wanna be sold.
Life ain't easy but its better than dying,
Gotta fight on, gotta keep on trying.
I gotta good life, I should be glad,
But when she leaves it makes me sad.
Soon she'll realize i'm the man she seeks,
It might take some time even weeks and weeks.
Could take years just who's to say?
Might be in April or maybe in May?
I didn't start on the bottom but i'm moving on up,
Gotta buckle down I've had enough.
Drink and drugs just bring me down,
Probably the reason I get kicked around.
Somebody tell me when things will look bright,
Trapped in a tunnel, searching for light.
I may have a star and it may be blonde
But after years and years I feel no bond.
Should I pack up and move away?
Run from trouble or is it here to stay?
---
I WOULD ARGUE THIS IS my first poem
I'm a pretty good kid, I earn my pay
Regrets are Pathetic is my quote of the day.
Can't think about the past, only today,
There's always tomorrow is what they say.
THE END
SHORT
Item 340
LOW ROAD HIGH ROAD
In one sentence: Tom's poem 'Low Road High Road' ('I took the low road and dredged through the mud'), under a bubble-letter title on a lined notebook sheet, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's handwritten poem LOW ROAD HIGH ROAD (I took the low road and dredged through the mud), under a bubble-letter title on a lined notebook sheet, published in his poem anthologies.
- Why it matters
- Tom's early handwritten poem LOW ROAD HIGH ROAD (I took the low road and dredged through the mud), from his yellow binder, published in his poem anthologies.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Yellow binder (early poems) ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Journey ; Inspiring
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line P5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
LOW ROAD HIGH ROAD
I took the low road and dredged through the mud
While you took the high road escaping the flood
I was washed away and set adrift by the sea
You found me on shore and you rescued me
We each followed paths with directions unclear
From two corners of the earth yet we still ended up here
FULL
Item 366
She's like a girl I'd seen
In one sentence: Tom's early lyric 'She's like a girl I'd seen...', written on aged, torn paper with part of the top missing and more lines on a second side, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten early lyric She's like a girl I'd seen..., written on aged, torn paper with part of the top missing and more lines on a second side.
- Why it matters
- Tom's early lyric She's like a girl I'd seen..., on aged, torn paper with more lines on a second side (Pretty houses with fences so high), from his yellow binder.draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Yellow binder (early poems) ; Love ; Societydraft - not yet proved
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line E2, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- Same words
- also written out as number 663
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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She's like a girl I'd s [torn] been bare
The future's uncertain [torn] since [torn]
What's instore? [torn]
I'd seen her [torn] at a neighbor's place
I fell in love when I saw her face
She's like a shot in the dark
You see the face
You See the spark
You pray to your girl
What you could be
But time will tell
And then you'll see
Can you make it? [interlined: well I don't know]
She is the essance of my existence
The only thing I'm living for
Life would be so wonderful
Only, if it wasn't such a bare
---
Pretty houses with fences so high
Will it all be wor[t]h it when yo die?
Another traffic jam at [torn] [?]eed
Another pistol full of lead
You stand outside
Waiting for what's in
With every passing thought
Another [?]
You keep it in your secret hiding place
Alone and unnoticed just another face
What's inside of you
a deer in headlights
Early Mornin' lights a sailor's delight
When you're not here I walk home alone
I get so scared
So far from home
Desperate Confusion, Where is she/how?
I could tell so much if I only knew how?
Sometime from now she'll see it {struck: for}
That my life is a who knows what?
Item 371
My friends ask me just what it is that I'd like to do best
In one sentence: One of Tom's very early poems, 'My friends ask me just what it is that I'd like to do best,' kept with a napkin labelled 'VERY EARLY POEM', about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
One of Tom's very early handwritten poems, My friends ask me just what it is that I'd like to do best (to touch the crescent moon), on a lined sheet kept with a napkin labelled VERY EARLY POEM in red, which he later reworded as the poem CRESCENT MOON (in his books of 2011, 2012 and 2013).
- Why it matters
- One of Tom's very early poems, My friends ask me just what it is that I'd like to do best (to touch the crescent moon), kept with a napkin he labelled VERY EARLY POEM, a poem in his yellow binder (line C4), which he later reworded as the poem CRESCENT MOON in Tom's Anthology (2011).on file: muse WIFE
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; First poems ; Yellow binder (early poems) ; Dreams ; Love
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 (an earlier draft of the poem CRESCENT MOON)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 (an earlier draft of the poem CRESCENT MOON)
Shorter Lyrics (2013) (an earlier draft of the poem CRESCENT MOON) - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23binder line C4 'Crescent Moon', in the ranked head of letter C (best to worse, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23; the poem is printed reworded in Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - best guess
- Same words
- also written out as number 1730
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The words on this page
My friends ask me just what it is that I'd
like to do best
Simply to touch the cressant moon that
shines above the rest
I've thought about it often but the courage
I couldn't find
I've been doin' all I can to try to make
that sweet girl mine
She's the type you heard about ; likes to open
her own door
Independance makes you lonely you find that
everyones a bore
I care for her so much infact sometimes its
hard to see
My heart can only be at peace when she
cares this much for me
If she never does I'll have no choice but
to pack everything and run
And go hide out on a crowded beach
in the hot Floridian sun
(cut this --- and the whole second copy after it, to the end of the words box)
like to do best
Simply to touch the cressant moon that
shines above the rest
I've thought about it often but the courage
I couldn't find
I've been doin' all I can to try to make
that sweet girl mine
She's the type you heard about; likes to open
her own door
Independance makes you lonely you find that
everyones a bore
I care for her so much infact sometimes its
hard to see
My heart can only be at peace when she
cares this much for me
If she never does I'll have no choice but
to pack everything and run
And go hide out on a crowded beach
in the hot Floridian sun
HALF
Item 377
I've Lived the Life of a Rock Star and I Don't Even
In one sentence: Tom's lyric 'I've lived the life of a rock star and I don't even sing,' all of 'King In A House Of Cards', with a second poem alongside, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten lyric I've lived the life of a rock star and I don't even sing (just a plain jester who thought he was king), the whole of KING IN A HOUSE OF CARDS; photographed with it under the same number, a separate poem on a second lined sheet, the whole of MEN ON MY SHOULDER, beginning When my baby said, You've got to choose.
- Why it matters
- Tom's early lyric I've lived the life of a rock star and I don't even sing (just a plain jester who thought he was king), on two sheets, from his yellow binder, which went into more than a dozen books including Only The Best (2018).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Yellow binder (early poems) ; Chomskian Poems (2011) ; Finished Song Lyrics (2011) ; 180 Good Poems (2012) ; 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013) ; Only The Best (2018) ; Music ; Humor ; Self
- Published in
- IN A BOOK200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013)
The November 2024 Collection (2024)
Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Brian Rainstorm: Poetry Not Dead (2014)
180 Good Poems (2012)
Only The Best (2018)
A Lifetime Of Rhyme (2020)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Shorter Lyrics (2013) (KING IN A HOUSE OF CARDS only)
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011
Chomskian Poems (2011)
Brian Rainstorm Song Lyric Book (2014)
Finished Song Lyrics (2011)
The November 2012 Anthology (2012)
Tom Jensen Lyrics (2019) - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line K3, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
I've lived the life of a Rock star and I don't even
sing,
I was just a plain jester who thought he was king,
Now that my crown of thorns has been taken from me.
The weight has been lifted and I'm finally free.
Once I {struck: taking} was a king and my kingdom unclean,
But I was forced to step down because of my Queen.
I betrayed her trust and she gave up her throne,
The reality set in that I was all alone,
I had no subjects, I followed the crowd,
I had no wisdom yet still acted proud.
As others passed by no one {struck: bothered} {struck: to} ever bowed,
When I should have spoke softly I began getting loud.
FULL
Item 380
The Darkness Fades as Sun Sets In
In one sentence: Tom's blue-ink poem 'The darkness fades as sun sets in (metaphors are my only friends),' an early draft of 'Hiding The Dirt', on a lined sheet, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten blue-ink poem The darkness fades as sun sets in (metaphors are my only friends), on a lined sheet - an early draft of HIDING THE DIRT (Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012; 180 Good Poems, 2012).
- Why it matters
- Tom's early blue-ink poem The darkness fades as sun sets in (metaphors are my only friends), listed at H3 in his yellow binder (as HIDING THE DIRT), later reworked in Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 and 180 Good Poems (2012).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Yellow binder (early poems) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; 180 Good Poems (2012) ; Loneliness & Solitude ; Writing
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
180 Good Poems (2012) - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line H3, 'Hiding the Dirt' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
The darkness fades as sun sets in
Metaphores are my only friends
When all the people have come and gone
All thats left is what I had all along
The only voices I like to hear are the ones in my head
Seem to be the only ones I can remember what was
said
I like animals cause they don't talk back
They don't care if you're white or black
As long as you feed 'em and don't abuse 'em
too much
They'll be your friend - so soft to the touch
Let the hunters be the hunted and watch
them run
If it was up to me the hunted would have guns
There's no wrong in poetry
Its so strong it frightens me
give apes a typewriter and you will have a novel
take away my pen and you will hear me
grovel.
Let me out of my cage
entrap me in your maze
I will find the key
Let me swim inside the sea
Set all my troubles free
Clense me from the dirt I hide
Buckle me safe on this bumpy ride
Try to look inside my soul
See my heart is blackened coal
If a pearl is buried {struck: deep} show it to me
If my hands are tied please set me free
I will pleasure you with loyalty
Watching you with jealousy
Item 513
I won't make you rich but I can
In one sentence: Tom's poem 'I won't make you rich but I can make you famous,' in black ink on a lined sheet, with a green-ink three-hole sheet of morning lines, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten poem I won't make you rich but I can make you famous, on a lined sheet in black ink, with a green-ink three-hole sheet beginning I wake up in the early morning, published in 200 Poems Waiting For Music.
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten poem I won't make you rich but I can make you famous, listed in his binder index, with a green-ink sheet beginning 'I wake up in the early morning', published in 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013).draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013) ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Brian Rainstorm: Poetry Not Dead (2014) ; A Lifetime Of Rhyme (2020) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Fame ; Inspiringdraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOK200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013)
Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Brian Rainstorm: Poetry Not Dead (2014)
A Lifetime Of Rhyme (2020)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line M5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The words on this page
I won't make you rich but I can
make you famous
The powers that be finally let me
hold the gun
But I'm not sure where I'm gonna aim
it...
Lesson One:
Don't give a gun to just anyone
Especially not one that's loaded
For I've seen a powder keg
Exploded
---
I wake up in the early morning just another day
Another day, the same routine, it always seems the same
Six days a week I'm not myself shackled by my chains
Although you left me yourself your memory still remains
Within my mind you're still with me as if nothing's changed
I try to stay with familiar faces while everything's {struck: rearranged} deranged
Monotony will drive you mad if you don't play pretend
Though we all play this game I think its time to end
Free and easy is the only way for me
Sometimes its better to just let it be
There are things in the world that'll drive you mad
I try to take the good with the bad
If you're like me you've worked so hard there's no time
left for fun
But when you stop and think there's nothing left to
do because every thing's been done
The hands of the clock are always moving, my feet always
on the run
A hamster on his wheel, a race never to be won
My free time left at the end of the day
A date with my books so i can get my A
This is my life most everyday
Things always stay the same
I endure the same old pain
With each new day I play their game
I am stressed and overwhelmed
My life's been deemed a living hell
I get up when I want to stay in bed
Try to live when I feel so dead.
Find the strength deep down inside
Life's a journey enjoy the ride
The steps are long going up the hill
You think it stops but it never will
Higher and higher the darker the sky
This circle continues and then you die
Item 535
I Just Got Off the Phone With a Girl, She Still Loves Me
In one sentence: Tom's black-ink lyric 'I just got off the phone with a girl, she still loves me,' on hole-punched loose-leaf, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten black-ink lyric I just got off the phone with a girl, she still loves me (we'll be family again), on hole-punched loose-leaf.
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten lyric I just got off the phone with a girl, she still loves me ('we'll be family again'), listed in his binder index.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Love ; Family
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line W2, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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I just got off the phone with a girl, she still loves me,
I bet her fire but shes flown back to me,
She's the best I've seen & wrote her in a letter,
But we can't get together til I get better.
It's a slow process so I take it step by step,
That will find ourselves together is your safest bet
It gets lonely in the basement when you dream to pair,
Too many choices can rinse your life down the drain.
Behind door number one - could be an angel in disguise
Door number two - your biggest suprise.
Behind door number three - filled with crooks and lies.
You're behind number four, I can see it in your eyes.
I should tell you so you can show me the way,
If the hell cost money then gladly i'll pay.
I've got to stop this livin goin day to day,
When everything said and done this is the price i pay.
You gotta turn the next page, start over again,
Sort out your acquaintances and weed out your friends.
It's hard to see when the smoke fills your eyes,
Hard to know whats pure in a world full of lies.
Through trial and error you'll find yourself, and
Discover the people who you cant live without
I've found them all but one's been misplaned,
She's behind the door I caught a glimpse of her face.
She cries "let me out" or let yourself in,
I'd love to show her heaven and shield her from sin.
She might have to wait 'cause of the shape I'm in.
But once I get it together we'll be family again.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
UNPUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's previously unpublished handwritten poem ODE TO STEVE (Sounds of gurgling fill the midnight air), on a lined notebook sheet.
- Why it matters
- Tom's previously unpublished handwritten poem ODE TO STEVE ('Sounds of gurgling fill the midnight air'), listed in his binder index - found in none of his books or albums.draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Previously unpublished ; Unreleased poems ; Funny ; Friendshipdraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- PREVIOUSLY UNPUBLISHEDSearched against the 34 albums, every book and Poems By Tom - found in none of them
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line O3, 'Ode to Steve' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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ODE TO STEVE
Sounds of gurggling fill the midnight air
I awake and look yet noone's there
The sound of running water,
that which pures the soul
Born of no mother or father
Reincarnated as a toilet bowl
Just as skeletons rattle chains
Houses creek and shutters bang
Here lies a spirit surely possessed
Until we leave he'll never rest
His first visit, rather appearance, was Halloween
A time of trickery and treachery and
yellow moon beams
A time of tricks and treats and
candied sweets
when our stomachs get sick from
all the candy we eat
And in our time of desperation
we look for a seat
Great Steve became angry because on him
we chose to sit
And due to all the chocolate we
gave him diarheaa shit
Now steve rattles and shakes with this
message he sends
Some day I'll [?] shit on you and
I'll get [?] my revenge
SHORT
Item 673
Here it comes - early morning light
In one sentence: Tom's faint blue cursive lyric 'Here It Comes - Early Morning Light,' about being up all night, on a cream three-hole notebook sheet, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's handwritten short lyric HERE IT COMES - EARLY MORNING LIGHT, one paragraph in faint blue cursive on a cream three-hole-punched sheet of lined notebook paper, about being up all night, published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten short lyric Here It Comes - Early Morning Light, one paragraph in faint blue cursive about being up all night, listed in his binder index (line O5, a ranked list, not date order), published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Late night ; Internal Struggle
- Published in
- IN A BOOKShorter Lyrics (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line O5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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Here it comes - early morning light. Could be darkness I've been up all night. Hey excuse me, do you have a light? Suddenly my bulb's not burning bright. Just wanted to have some fun. Uh oh, what has just been done? Uh oh, don't think hell see the sun. I barely knew him, he was a friend of a friend. He aint no more a friend of mine. This could happen a second time.
FULL
Item 705
Help I've fallen and I can't get up
In one sentence: Tom's poem 'Help I've Fallen And I Can't Get Up,' with a bridge about sons and fathers, one of the first in his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten full poem HELP I'VE FALLEN AND I CAN'T GET UP, with a bridge about the gap between sons and fathers, on three-hole lined paper with an alphabet row across the top, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten full poem Help I've Fallen And I Can't Get Up, with a bridge about the gap between sons and fathers, from his early yellow binder and published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Family ; Internal Struggle
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line H4, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- Same words
- also written out as number 507, 1025matched on the words by machine - Tom confirms
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
B C D E F G H I J K L M N P Q R S T V W X Y Z
Help I've fallen and I can't get up -
I've just taken my last step
Give me a minute to catch my breath.
I still don't know why you left?
It wasn't right
Why did we fight?
We've been through this all before
Hasn't it become a bore?
I wanted you you wanted more
No longer will this key unlock your door
I once saw us together til the end of time
I can see that I was blind.
Why do you treat me so unkind?
I'm heart broken and you don't seem to mind.
Item 717
I know you love me so that's why I let you go
In one sentence: Tom's six-line blue-ink poem 'I Know You Love Me So That's Why I Let You Go,' one of the first in his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten full poem I KNOW YOU LOVE ME SO THAT'S WHY I LET YOU GO, six short lines in blue ink on a sheet of lined notebook paper with a folded corner, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten six-line poem I Know You Love Me So That's Why I Let You Go, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Love ; Heartbreak
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line H4, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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I know you love me so that's why I let you go
Will I lead you on forever? No No No.
It's just not meant to be It's become clear to me
I had to set you free some day you'll thank me
I love you enough not to use you
I'm sorry I never meant to abuse you
Item 719
Free and easy is the only way for me
In one sentence: Tom's eleven-line poem 'Free And Easy Is The Only Way For Me,' on three-hole lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten full poem FREE AND EASY IS THE ONLY WAY FOR ME, eleven lines on three-hole-punched lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten eleven-line poem Free And Easy Is The Only Way For Me, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Freedom ; Be Differentdraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line M5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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Free and easy is the only way for me
sometimes you need to let things be
just try and maybe you'll see
There are things in this world they'll drive you mad
I try to take the good with the bad
Well I've been stressed and overwhelmed
My life's been deemed a living hell
I wake up when I want to stay in bed
Try to live when I feel so dead
Find the strength deep down inside
You're life's a journey so enjoy the ride
HALF
Item 729
I don't know why they left it to me
In one sentence: Tom's blue-ink poem 'I Don't Know Why They Left It To Me,' on lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten poem I DON'T KNOW WHY THEY LEFT IT TO ME, in blue ink on a sheet of lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten poem I Don't Know Why They Left It To Me, in blue ink, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Familydraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line F3, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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I don't know why they left it to me
When you talk about I then you forget about we
If you forget about we then you forget about us
Then everyone's boarding the same old bus
It's Driving into the wall
I don't know why they left it to me
Somethings must be told because you can not see
Just because you have a different mother
Doesn't mean I can't call you brother
We're all one big family
I don't know why they left it to me
FULL
Item 745
I've wrote too many sad, sad songs
In one sentence: Tom's lyric to his guitar, 'I've wrote too many sad sad songs,' in ink on lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten lyric to his guitar, beginning "I've wrote too many sad sad songs", in ink on lined notebook paper, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten lyric to his guitar, beginning I've wrote too many sad sad songs, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) - the songwriter talking to his own instrument.draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Music ; Songwritingdraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line W1, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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I've wrote too many sad sad songs,
The love we had was once so strong,
Please tell me where we went wrong
I need you back its already been too long.
I'm coming to find you so please don't hide,
Open your heart again let me back inside,
Told my self I was better off without you,
I know I lied,
When you left my better half died.
Even though I'm a man I'll swallow my pride,
When you lay down the law I'll promise to abide.
I'll admit I wasn't right, I had my priorities
confused,
You're not the only one who hurts, we've both been
abused.
Item 757
When there's nothing left to do because everything's been done
In one sentence: Tom's blue-ink poem 'When There's Nothing Left To Do Because Everything's Been Done,' on lined notebook paper with the alphabet across the top, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten full poem WHEN THERE'S NOTHING LEFT TO DO BECAUSE EVERYTHING'S BEEN DONE, in blue ink on lined notebook paper with the alphabet across the top, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten full poem When There's Nothing Left To Do Because Everything's Been Done, in blue ink under an alphabet line, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Boredom ; Internal Struggledraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line M5) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
When there's nothing left to do because everything's been
done.
If you're like me and you've worked so hard there's no
time left for fun
My clock is always moving and my feet always on the run
I'm a hamster on his wheel, a race that can never be won
My free time left at the end of the day
Is spent with my books so I can earn my A
This is my life most everyday
Still not sure why this game I play
Item 759
The truth about turtles
In one sentence: Tom's never-published poem 'The Truth About Turtles' ('To live one day outside this glass'), listed at T3 in his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
UNPUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten, never-published poem THE TRUTH ABOUT TURTLES ("To live one day outside this glass"), on a torn sheet of lined loose-leaf, listed at T3 in his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten poem The Truth About Turtles (To live one day outside this glass), never published, listed at T3 in his early yellow binder.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Previously unpublished poems ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Animals ; Freedom
- Published in
- PREVIOUSLY UNPUBLISHEDSearched against the 34 albums, every book and Poems By Tom - found in none of them
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23in Tom's yellow binder index (line T3, 'The truth about turtles' - a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The truth about turtles
To live one day outside this glass
Even if next I come to pass
I dream the dream of being free
Your life be meaningless if you were me
A fairy tale, once upon a time I swam around
But presently no rock nor blue sky can be found
From five sides of glass free me please
While sixth lies open such a tease
Perhaps I should grow white wings so wide
To free me, release me, from where I reside
And teeth, so sharp to bite through screen
fly back to my home alone and unseen
{struck: To big cat sitting close I appear as a meal}
My rock in my pond where I use to sleep
Where I was trapped and caught by nets that creep
yes, death or liberty - anything but this
for my sons and daughter and family I miss
Item 761
The path is twistin', the path is turnin'
In one sentence: Tom's poem 'The Path Is Twistin', The Path Is Turnin',' in neat cursive on notebook paper, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten full poem THE PATH IS TWISTIN', THE PATH IS TURNIN', in neat cursive on a sheet of lined notebook paper in good condition, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten full poem The Path Is Twistin', The Path Is Turnin', in neat cursive, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Life journey ; Inspiring
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line P5) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The path is twistin', the path is turnin',
some kind of feelin' deep down is burnin'.
God comes in all colors, shapes and people,
Even a young girl could be my steeple.
There are paths leading up and paths goin' down,
I just can't pack my bags and leave this town.
God's in you and maybe even in me,
But through this darkness its hard to see.
Got to keep searching I'll find it in time,
Hopefully I'll get there with you still mine.
The low road is easy but the high's full of pain
But the harder I try the bigger the gain.
HALF
Item 773
I work my fingers to the bone
In one sentence: Tom's lyric 'I work my fingers to the bone,' under an alphabet line on loose-leaf, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten lyric beginning "I work my fingers to the bone and sacrifice what is now for what will be", under a full alphabet line on lined loose-leaf, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten lyric I Work My Fingers To The Bone (and sacrifice what is now for what will be), under a full alphabet line, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Work ; Motivational
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line F5) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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ABCDEFGHIJKLM NOPQRSTUVWXYZ
I work my fingers to the bone and sacrifice what is how for what will be
Years from now when I'm sitting pretty I'll look back and forget all this misery
But what do I do If when I get there, looking ahead, see I'm far behind
All this work that I've done will be wasted, going Nowhere, just wasted time
I SHOULD LIVE for Today
Its so much simpler this way
Theres alot less heartache livin day today
Lets forget about tomorrow, what do you say?
SHORT
Item 812
If I was a carpenter and you
In one sentence: Tom's comic poem 'If I Was A Carpenter And You Were A Lady,' a sharp twist on the old song, on a small notepad sheet, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's handwritten comic short poem IF I WAS A CARPENTER AND YOU WERE A LADY, a sharp-tongued twist on the old song, in blue ink on a small top-bound notepad sheet, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten comic short poem If I Was A Carpenter And You Were A Lady, a sharp-tongued twist on the old song, from his early yellow binder, published in Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Funny ; Music ; Adult
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom's Anthology, September 18, 2011
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line C11, its own title there) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23; proved ceiling: its words are in Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 (Laima dedication), as THE CARPENTER AND THE B*TCH
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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If I was a carpenter and you
were a lady
What the hell?
I am a carpenter and you're a
bitch!
I build the caskets and you
dig the ditch
I lay 'em up and you lay 'em
down
Now ain't that a switch
Last one in line is the last in the
ground
Item 816
Night falls its time to go to bed
In one sentence: Tom's short poem 'Night Falls It's Time To Go To Bed,' on a small torn cream sheet, from his early yellow binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's handwritten short poem NIGHT FALLS ITS TIME TO GO TO BED, on a small torn sheet of lined cream-colored notebook paper, from his early yellow binder (written between ages 18 and 23).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten short poem Night Falls Its Time To Go To Bed, on a small torn cream sheet, from his early yellow binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).draft - not yet proved
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Night ; Naturedraft - not yet proved
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line N4, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
Night falls its time to go to bed
You know how the saying goes
time to rest your weary head
But when the stars shine
in the sky
It's so much harder to say
good bye
HALF
Item 893
The Innocence of a child
In one sentence: Tom's poem 'The Innocence of a child,' dreaming of being Holden Caulfield, with consonants across the top of hole-punched notebook paper, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten poem "The Innocence of a child - I wish it was all around," dreaming of being Holden Caulfield, the catcher in the rye, with a row of consonants across the top, in ink on a hole-punched sheet of lined notebook paper; published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten poem The Innocence of a child - I wish it was all around, dreaming of being Holden Caulfield, the catcher in the rye, from his yellow binder, published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems (ages 18 to 23) ; Childhood ; Books
- Published in
- IN A BOOKShorter Lyrics (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line I3, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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B C D F G H J K L M N P Q R S T V W Y Z
The Innocence of a child - I wish it was all around,
Cause lately I been feelin' that virtue can't be found.
When I stop and see their faces - I look into their eyes,
The innocence of a child - who hasn't yet learn to lie.
I dream I am Holden Caulfield and a Catcher in the Rye,
Yet I know they'll be corrupted thats when I start to sigh.
SHORT
Item 1003
I feel uncertain where do I go from here?
In one sentence: A four-line handwritten poem, 'I Feel Uncertain Where Do I Go From Here?', about finally being free after a breakup, from the yellow poem binder, written about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's handwritten four-line poem I FEEL UNCERTAIN WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE? in ink on lined paper, about finally being free after a breakup; from his early binder, written when he was between 18 and 23, and published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten four-line poem I Feel Uncertain Where Do I Go From Here?, about finally being free after a breakup; from his early binder, published in the Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems ; Shorter lyrics ; Heartbreak ; Moving on
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line H4, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
I feel uncertain where do I go from here?
I'm finally free the coast is clear
No longer do her voice I hear
No longer does she call me dear
Item 1027
I think my baby's gonna leave me
In one sentence: A short poem in faint blue cursive, 'I Think My Baby's Gonna Leave Me', from the yellow poem binder, written about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's short poem I THINK MY BABY'S GONNA LEAVE ME, handwritten in faint blue cursive on three-hole lined paper, about never seeing the writing on the wall; from his early binder, written when he was between 18 and 23, and published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original short poem I Think My Baby's Gonna Leave Me, in faint blue cursive, about never seeing the writing on the wall; from his early binder, published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems ; Heartbreak ; Love
- Published in
- IN A BOOKShorter Lyrics (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line M3) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

Picture 1 of 2
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Picture 2 of 2
The words on this page
I think my baby's gonna leave me,
But none of my friends believe me.
I think my baby's gonna leave me,
If my eyes don't deceive me.
Why do I sit down when I should stand tall,
Why is it me who never sees the writing on the wall.
Item 1049
Stuck in a rut caught in a jam
In one sentence: A short poem in dark ink, 'Stuck In A Rut Caught In A Jam', about losing a right-hand man, from the yellow poem binder, written about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · SHORTER LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · SHORT
Tom's short poem STUCK IN A RUT CAUGHT IN A JAM, handwritten in dark ink on lined notebook paper, about being left behind when his right-hand man skipped town; from his early binder, written when he was between 18 and 23, and published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original short poem Stuck In A Rut Caught In A Jam, about being left behind when his right-hand man skipped town; from his early binder, published in Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Yellow binder poems ; Friendship ; Internal Struggle
- Published in
- IN A BOOKShorter Lyrics (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line J3) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

Picture 1 of 2
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Picture 2 of 2
The words on this page
Stuck in a rut caught in a jam
Up is down left is right
Hard to make it without your right hand man
You know he skipped town in the middle of
the night
He couldn't make it he couldn't take it
FULL
Item 1972
Another Cigarette (Chairman of the Bored)
In one sentence: A printed copy of Tom's early poem 'Another Cigarette (Chairman Of The Bored)', a sleepless rainy night spent asking why, from his early binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
A printed copy of Tom's early poem Another Cigarette (Chairman of the Bored), about a sleepless rainy night spent asking himself why, from his early binder.
- Why it matters
- A printed copy of Tom's early poem Another Cigarette (Chairman of the Bored), a sleepless rainy night spent asking why - from his early binder, published in his anthologies.
- Type
- Printed page
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Loneliness and solitude ; Internal struggle
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line A5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- Same words
- also written out as number 445matched on the words by machine - Tom confirms
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
Another Cigarette (Chairman of the Bored)
Another sleepless night as rain falls from the sky
Another cigarette and I ask myself why
What have I done thats been keeping me awake?
Not like I'm a bad man, never a life I did take
Grab a beer from the fridge it helps me to think
I doubt it'll make me tired it's my last drink
Looking through an open window at the cars passing by
Another cigarette as I ask myself why
Could be depression or it could be something more
Not sure why I'm down there's alot I'm thankful for
I've done more in twenty years than some in a whole life
I've already found a beautiful girl who'd make a beautiful wife
She's been gone for a week but she'll be back here in a day
I'd tell you all about her but my love is more than I can say
Another cigarette and I ask myself why
Why I feel so low when I should be so high
For the first time in awhile I've got my life on track
The only time I can remember that they've finally cut me slack
I'm now moving forward rather than turning back
How come I can't sleep everytime I hit the sack?
Another cigarette, I know I should quit but I tried
Why do I feel like this, like I want to go and hide?
I look okay to you 'cause you can't see inside
When I say I got something to do then you know I lied
I'm the new chairman of the bored 'cause Frank Sinatra died
In one sentence: A printed copy of Tom's early poem 'False Alarm', a moment that felt like a revelation from a higher power, from his early binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
A printed copy of Tom's early poem FALSE ALARM, about a moment that felt like a revelation from a higher power and turned out to be a heart attack he survived, from his early binder.
- Why it matters
- A printed copy of Tom's early poem FALSE ALARM - a moment that felt like a revelation from a higher power and turned out to be a heart attack - from his early binder, published in his anthologies.
- Type
- Printed page
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Faith ; Death
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line F4, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- Same words
- also written out as number 159matched on the words by machine - Tom confirms
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

The only picture of this piece
The words on this page
FALSE ALARM
I just felt it - a revelation
From a higher power, a new sensation
Did you feel it? Small vibrations?
A complete focus of concentration
Feelin' dizzy - head is spinnin'
Could this be it? A new beginning?
Not sure why I'm feeling this way
Oh God, please don't take me away
Hear a lost voice in my ear
Try to listen, words aren't clear
Almost time to start my praying
Wish I new what it was saying
Heard something outside rather frightening
Thought it was someone throwing lightening
I just had a heart attack
But my religion gave me back
He decided not to take me away
Down beneath the earth where the devils play
I had the shivers or was it the shakes?
Just one more chance and I'll do what it takes
I got the problem and you the cure
I'm so unstable and you're so secure
Did you get the better of me?
I look around but no angels I see
Do I have time for one final plea?
A final cigarette and a hot cup of tea?
( loud thunder and lightening- I wake up screaming)
Thank my lucky stars it was just a false alarm
I was never really in danger, far away from harm
Must say I'll sleep good tonight
Just one favor...can you leave on the light?
Item 1979
WITH HER I'LL MAKE IT
In one sentence: A printed two-page copy of Tom's early love poem 'With Her I'll Make It', opening 'I've wrote too many sad, sad songs', from his early binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
A printed copy, two pages, of Tom's early love poem WITH HER I'LL MAKE IT, which opens I've wrote too many sad, sad songs and pleads for a lost love to come back, from his early binder.
- Why it matters
- A printed copy of Tom's early love poem WITH HER I'LL MAKE IT - I've wrote too many sad, sad songs - pleading for a lost love to come back; from his early binder, published in his anthologies and Shorter Lyrics (2013).
- Type
- Printed page
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; Shorter Lyrics (2013) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Love ; Heartbreak
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
Shorter Lyrics (2013)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line W1, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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Picture 2 of 2
The words on this page
WITH HER I'LL MAKE IT
I've wrote too many sad,sad songs
About how the love we had was once so strong
Trying to remember where we went wrong
I need you back its already been too long
I'm coming to find you so please don't hide
If only you knew how bad I hurt inside
Open your heart again please swallow your pride
I tried to convice myself I didn't need you but I knew I lied
When you left my better half died
Even though I'm a man I too will swallow my pride
If you lay down the law I'll promise to abide
For I know I wasn't right I just had my priorities confused
And even though I hurt you we've both been abused
I got off the phone with you and I know you still love me
I had to set you free but you've flown back to me
You're the best I've seen I wrote you in a letter
But I know we can't get back together until I get better
Its such a slow process that I'll take it step by step
We'll find ourselves together is your safest bet
The heart gets lonely when dreams turn to pain
All of life's choices can rinse your life down the drain
Behind door number one- the devil in disguise
Door number two- your biggest surprise
Behind door number three- its filled with crooks and lies
But you're behind four- I can tell it in your eyes
I'll turn the key and let you show me the way
And if that key costs money then gladly I'll pay
I've got to stop this livin' day to day
When everything's said and done this is the price I have to pay
I'll turn the page and start over again
Sort out my aquaintences and weed out my friends
Sometimes it's hard to see things stright when smoke gets in your eyes
You never know what's pure in this world full of lies
Through trial and error I find myself
And discover those that I can't live without
---
I've found them all but one's been misplaced
I know where she is, I caught a glimpse of her face
She cries "Let me out or let yourself in!"
She's become my heaven in this land of sin
But I might have to wait 'cause of the shape I'm in
But somewhere down the road we'll be family again
I've heard alot of love songs where the girl got away
I started writing a new one when I knew she would stay
Three break ups has made us strong
Three gettin' back togethers has formed us a bond
"You better go to rehab if you wanna stay with me"
"Where whitecoated men will bound you for your own security"
Bound may be too stong its more like strongly secured
I found my better half so my illness will soon be cured
I owe it all to her for she seems to be my cure
With her I'll make- I am very sure
Item 1981
Postal Worker's Payback
In one sentence: A printed copy of Tom's early comic poem 'Postal Worker's Payback', told in capitals by a mail carrier working six days a week, from his early binder, about 1996-2000.
Item type
POEM · IN TOM'S ANTHOLOGY (SEPTEMBER 2011) · FULL POEM
PUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
A printed copy of Tom's early comic poem Postal Worker's Payback, told in capital letters by a mail carrier in his little jeep who works six days a week through rain, sleet and snow, from his early binder.
- Why it matters
- A printed copy of Tom's early comic poem Postal Worker's Payback, told in capitals by a mail carrier working six days a week through rain, sleet and snow - from his early binder.
- Type
- Printed page
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Funny ; Society
- Published in
- IN A BOOKTom's Anthology, September 18, 2011
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line P2, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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Picture 3 of 3
Found photo - not on any card before - the number blocks in this photo read 1981
The words on this page
Postal Worker's Payback
I GOT A LITTLE JEEP THAT BARELY GETS ME AROUND
ANOTHER DAY, ANOTHER ROUTE, IN THE SAME OLD TOWN
WALK TO THE MAILBOX AND THEN WALK BACK TO MY RIDE
BUT I ALWAYS GET CONFUSED, THE WHEEL'S ON THE WRONG SIDE
I WORK SIX DAYS A WEEK BUT IT FEELS MORE LIKE EIGHT
LET ME TELL YOU MY FRIEND, MY LIFE IT AIN'T GREAT
IF IT RAINS THEY DON'T CARE THEY SEND ME OUT IN THE FLOOD
WHILE MY FEET GET WET AND COVERED BY MUD
THERE'S A BLIZZARD OUT THERE AND THEY DON'T CARE OUT THE DOOR I GO
NOTHING STOPS ME FROM DOING MY JOB NOT RAIN NOR SLEET NOR SNOW
THERE'S A DOG WHO CHASES ME DOWN THE DRIVEWAY TRYIN' TO BITE MY ASS
I GOT EVEN WHEN HE GOT IN FRONT O' MY JEEP I PUSHED DOWN ON THE GAS
THIS IS THE LIFE OF A MAILMAN IN CASE YOU DIDN'T KNOW
I GET PUSHED AROUND BY EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE I GO
I GOT DONE FROM A HARD DAY'S WORK MY BOSS WANTS TO TALK TO ME
WHEN I SAW THE PINK SLIP IN HIS HAND I KNEW I WAS HISTORY
SO I PACKED UP ALL MY STUFF AND HEADED OUT THE DOOR
NOT SURE WHAT I'M GONNA DO BUT I AIN'T GONNA TAKE IT ANYMORE
I'VE GOT TWO KIDS, TWO EX-WIVES AND MORE THAN MY SHARE OF BILLS
I'VE GOT AN IDEA THAT'LL GET ME EVEN BUT I BETTER MAKE OUT MY WILL
I WENT OUT TO BUY SOME BULLETS AND GUNS TO SATISFY MY URGE TO KILL
BUT IT TURNS OUT I GOTTA WAIT TEN DAYS 'CAUSE O' THAT GODDAMN BRADY BILL
TEN DAYS LATER I'M BACK AT WORK JUST WHEN THEY THOUGHT THE COAST WAS
CLEAR
BRING THE YELLOW TAPE, BRING THE WHITE CHAULK, I'M LISTENING TO THE LITTLE
VOICES IN MY EAR
I JUST GOT LAID OFF AFTER WORKING HERE FOR TWELVE YEARS SO YOU BETTER
RUN AWAY
NOW I'M BACK AT THE OFFICE AND I BROUGHT A FRIEND, I CALL HIM MR. A.K.
HE'S GOT ALOT OF BRONZE BUT NOT MUCH BRAIN
HIS ADDRESS IS 47 CEMETERY LANE
DON'T WORRY YOU'LL ALL SOON KNOW WHERE HE RESIDES
YOU'RE ALL GONNA DIE SO GO AHEAD AND CRY
BESIDES--
YOU CAN RUN, YOU CAN HIDE
BUT I'M ALREADY HERE INSIDE
WHAT I HAD WASN'T MUCH BUT NOW I GOT NOTHING LEFT TO LOSE
NOW YOU'RE ALL MY HOSTAGES WHICH ONE OF YOU DO I CHOOSE?
SO MUCH TO DO, SO MANY BULLETS- SO LITTLE TIME
---
THIS IS MY WAY OF TAKING BACK WHAT ONCE WAS MINE
FIRST MY BOSS JOE, I TOLD HIM GET DOWN ON HIS KNEE
I GUESS IT WASN'T SUCH A HOT IDEA, FIRING ME
NOTHING YOU CAN SAY EXCEPT HELLO, GOODBYE
TRY SENDIN' ME A POSTCARD AFTER YOU DIE
ITS ABOUT TIME I PUT A STAMP ON YOUR HEAD
I THINK I'LL USE THE ELVIS ONE 'CAUSE YOU'RE BOTH DEAD
SAM'S NEXT, THE ONE I'LL SHOOT
THIS IS WHAT HE GETS FOR TAKING MY ROUTE
HIS TURN TO MEET G.O.D.
SENDIN' HIM TO HEAVEN ON A C.O.D.
YES I AM BITTER, AND HOMICIDAL? WELL THAT MAY BE
BUY I DIDN'T COME HERE TO START A KILLING SPREE
THINK OF ME AS ONE WHO IS OWED COMING TO COLLECT A FEE
BUT I WON'T BE TAINTED BY INNOSCENT BLOOD: THE REST OF YOU ARE FREE
YOU MAY THINK I'M CRAZY BUT I'M NOT THE ONE
ITS THE GUY AT THE STORE WHO SOLD A POSTAL WORKER A GUN
AFTER THE LAST BODY DROPS ITS TIME FOR ME TO RUN
SLIP OUTTA HERE QUICK BEFORE THE COPS SEEN WHAT I'VE DONE
YOU MAY THINK I'M CRAZY BUT I'M NOT THE ONE
ITS THE GUY AT THE STORE WHO SOLD A POSTAL WORKER A GUN
Item 2000
Ravished By Your Beauty
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · FULL POEM
UNPUBLISHED · POEM · FULL
Tom's handwritten early love poems - the acrostic Ravished By Your Beauty, whose first letters spell a name and MY LOVE, and a blue-ink poem beginning Rant and rave, tell me to - on white and lined paper, one sheet written on the back of a February 2000 sports printout; from his early binder.
- Why it matters
- Tom's handwritten early love poems - the acrostic Ravished By Your Beauty, whose first letters spell a name and MY LOVE, and Rant and rave, tell me to - from his early binder, one written on the back of a February 2000 printout.
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- Unreleased poems ; Love ; Early binder poems
- Published in
- PREVIOUSLY UNPUBLISHEDSearched against the 34 albums, every book and Poems By Tom - found in none of them
- Age when written
- written at age 18 to 23from its place in Tom's yellow binder index (line R5, a ranked list, not date order) - the binder held 481 poems by 5 April 2002, when Tom was 23
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1998
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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The words on this page
R avished by your beauty
A nd placed in your arms
C ared for by your eyes
H ealed by your touch
E ngulfed in the flames of your heart
L ighting a candle in my darkness
M esmerized like a child
Y our flame guides me
L onliness is just a faded memory
O nly dreams of you now Fill my mind
V oid was my heart without you
E ndless is my love with you
Rant and rave, tell me to
A ct my age, try to
Change my ways, leaving me in a
Haze
Even when I try to write of
Love
Thoughts of heaven turn to
Hell as doves
Evolve into ravens
Because you don't
Inspire me
To reach for the stars, they've all
crashed down to earth and hit me off MY
Head
HALF
Item 760
There's a symphony playing in my mind
In one sentence: Tom's lyric 'There's A Symphony Playing In My Mind,' on lined notebook paper with a small stain, written by 2011.
Item type
POEM · UNRELEASED · HALF LYRICS
PUBLISHED · POEM · HALF
Tom's handwritten lyric THERE'S A SYMPHONY PLAYING IN MY MIND on lined notebook paper with a small stain; the words appear in 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013).
- Why it matters
- Tom's original handwritten lyric There's A Symphony Playing In My Mind, published in 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013).
- Type
- Handwritten sheet
- Collection
- 200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013) ; Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013) ; 180 Good Poems (2012) ; Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012 ; Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 ; Music ; Inspiring
- Published in
- IN A BOOK200 Poems Waiting For Music (2013)
Tom Jensen Poem Anthology (2013)
180 Good Poems (2012)
Tom's Anthology, July 25, 2012
Tom's Anthology, September 18, 2011 - Age when written
- written at about age 18 to 23 (1996 to 2002)likely: this is SYMPHONY IN MY HEAD, a first draft in his college class handout of December 5, 1999 (sheet 1989) and line S3 in his yellow binder
- On the site
- Tom's Story: 1999
Price · Tier · Tom fills these

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Picture 2 of 2
The words on this page
Theres a symphony playing in my mind
And truly it plays for me.
Sometimes I try to write it down
Though it some how always remains free
So pure and true that no pen or paper
all could ever hold
Its the only song I have that's
mine in this world so cold
Sometimes the music sounds
When life has got me down
The only thing that awakes me from my sorrow
Sometimes the music plays
When my happiness goes away
Reminds me that there's always hope for
tomorrow
Conductor takes the lead
waves the wand held in his hand