Janis Ian — This House

[Verse 1] I built this house out of cedar wood And I laid the beams by hand One for every false heart I had known One for the true heart I planned Laid the windows tight against the wind So in the winter we'd be warm I built a bedroom out of solid oak Safety from the storm [Chorus] This house is burning This home is on fire When you whisper to the walls It's another's name you call Even your tongue's become a liar This house is on fire [Verse 2] Stole the heart of a cherry wood And I built a door to last It was thick enough to keep all thieves away When the long nights came to pass Then one day there was a hint of spring And there were roses in the air We opened wide enough to let you in I was glad to share [Chorus] This house is burning This home is on fire When you whisper to the walls It's another's name you call Even your satin sheets are liars This house is on fire [Bridge] I said—I've built a good foundation Built on faith and hope But the fireplace is strong Put it out when you are gone Or the whole damned thing will go up in smoke [Chorus] This house is burning This home is on fire When you whisper to the walls It's another's name you call Even your body is a liar This house is on fire