A few years ago my cousin Gillian died unexpectedly at the age of only 42. A short time later I was moved to write this song. I had in mind not just the loss of my cousin and friend, but also those left behind, especially her husband, Henry. This song really is for him. It is about the question of how do we go on when we lose forever the one who has been at the core of our lives.

The rhythm of this piece is the steady, monotonous clockwork beat of time passing. Central to the song are the layers of slightly disjointed harmonies which, nevertheless, produce a beautiful, sad melody.

Bob Marley's 'Three Little Birds' was one of her favourite songs and played at the funeral, hence the chorus.