Paul
Yes, I definately do. Despite many interesting and equally valid interpretations of it (Too Late for Prayin') as:
A.) spiritual, B.) not spiritual (as in eschewing religion or its value, or being too late..) or C.)outright a religious prayer, I make no bones about it, I believe "C" is the case.
Generally it seems corfid members are understandably uneasy when bringing up religion per se,due to the simple and semi-valid short list of subjects to avoid in polite company,conversation, etc.
However, I have stated before without hesitation in the context that is generally spoken of as germaine in corfid of religion; that is when it is as a subtext to talking about GL's music as the subject at hand. And in that context, I would offer that "Too Late For Prayin" is one of the most beautiful songs Gord has ever written IMHO.
Moreover, it is without a doubt (in my mind) most definately a prayer of sorts, and speaks of Gord's religious quietudes that are also at times flat-out prayer, as in "Lord Forgive Me" (For I have sinned).
Granted, a flat literal interpretation of the lyrics of Too Late would suggest his lack of confidence in the value of praying in the (world?) state of affairs he sings of in the song.
But, even if that were the case, he still expresses the applicability of prayer to such sad things as mentioned in the song. So, either way you cut it, I think it speaks to his faith and religious conviction, with deftly chosen lyrics that do not bog the listener down as in "which religion, or denomination?".
Most important, aside from my my ramblings on "is this song religious ?" among other songs in another thread, is your specific comment/question for us all of is "Too Late.." among Gord's best ?
I say absolutely yes, melodically - superior, orchestration from the peak of the Nick DeCaro period (as I recall), and lyrically compelling, religious or not. If one sets *that* aside completely, I would maintain, as you do I believe, that it is one if his *very* best. I agree.
One other thought Paul, would you agree that "Too Late.." is also one of the best vocal performances of Gord's in this period, the "broad-brimmed period" according to some pundits ? More specifically, on a great album where he is experimenting with less or no vibrato, that this vibrato-laden song is a stand-out in this regard as well ? I liked that ability he has that he now uses judiciously.
Beautiful song, Paul, thanks for reminding me of it.
-geo Steve
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