Traditional American folk songs have a unique charm to them, such as the humorous piece “To Morrow” which was popularized by The Kingston Trio and other American Folk singers. It was written by Bob Gibson around the mid 20th century and its narrative focuses on a traveler attempting to reach a place named “Morrow.” A ticket agent’s response results in a puzzling yet funny argument between him and the traveler. The wordplay in the song is quite entertaining with the ticket agent misunderstanding what the traveler is saying and assuming he means “tomorrow” instead of “to Morrow.”
The song is famous not only for being funny, but also for the speed at which it is performed. The English language is creatively demonstrated through all the cities and places along with the time references that are used. While To Morrow may not explore deep emotional themes like some other folk songs do, its light-heartedness makes it appealing. Over the years, the song has been performed by many, including coffeehouse performers and children’s entertainers and it surely will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.
The exemplary pun-centered composition is a blend of humor and artistry which reveals itself as a tale once a call is made. A song full of joy that deserves a place in the hearts of travelers, it uses tried and tested phrases to inspire. The blend of musical mischief in To Morrow is a song that still baffles its listeners of any age and time with its sophisticated language and playful structure.
To Morrow Lyrics
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Song Title | To Morrow |
| Composer/Lyricist | Bob Gibson |
| Popularized By | The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters |
| Genre | Folk, Comedy |
| Release Period | Mid-20th Century (1950s–1960s) |
| Themes | Wordplay, Travel, Humor, Misunderstanding |
| Famous Line | “I want to go to Morrow and return tomorrow night” |
| Tone | Light-hearted, Comical |
| Legacy | Classic folk comedy song; used in language and music education |
To Morrow Lyrics
I started on a journey about a year ago
To a little town called Morrow in the state of Ohio
I’ve never been much of a traveler, and I really didn’t know
That Morrow was the hardest place I’d ever try to go
So I went down to the station for my ticket and applied
For tips regarding Morrow, not expecting to be guyed
Said I, “My friend, I’d like to go to Morrow and return
No later than tomorrow, for I haven’t time to burn”
Said he to me, “Now let me see if I have heard you right
You’d like to go to Morrow and return tomorrow night
You should have gone to Morrow yesterday and back today
For the train that goes to Morrow is a mile upon its way
If you had gone to Morrow yesterday now don’t you see
You could have gone to Morrow and returned today at three
For the train today to Morrow, if the schedule is right
Today it goes to Morrow and returns tomorrow night”
Said I, “My friend, it seems to me you’re talkin’ through your hat
There is a town named Morrow on the line now tell me that”
“There is,” said he, “but take from me a quiet little tip
To go from here to Morrow is a 14-hour trip”
“The train today to Morrow leaves today at 8:35
At half-past ten tomorrow is the time it should arrive
So if from here to Morrow is a 14-hour jump
Can you go today to Morrow and get back today, you chump?”
Said I, “I’d like to go to Morrow, so can I go today
And get to Morrow by tonight if there is no delay?”
“Well, well,” said he to me, “and I’ve got no more to say
Can’t get anywhere tomorrow and get back again today”
Said I, “I guess you know it all, but kindly let me say
How can I get to Morrow if I leave this town today?”
Said he, “You cannot go to Morrow any more today
‘Cause the train that goes to Morrow is a mile upon its way”
I was so disappointed, I was mad enough to swear
The train had gone to Morrow and had left me standing there
That man was right in telling me that I was a howling jay
I could not go to Morrow so I guess in town I’ll stay
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