How to Format Lyrics:

  • Type out all lyrics, even repeating song parts like the chorus
  • Lyrics should be broken down into individual lines
  • Use section headers above different song parts like [Verse], [Chorus], etc.
  • Use italics (<i>lyric</i>) and bold (<b>lyric</b>) to distinguish between different vocalists in the same song part
  • If you don’t understand a lyric, use [?]

To learn more, check out our transcription guide or visit our transcribers forum

About

Genius Annotation

Boston-based musicians John DeHaven and Randy Pingrey add horns to “For Emma”; surprisingly, their company doesn’t break the album’s spell of isolation, but rather strengthens it, as if they’re only his imaginary friends.

The dialogue format that appears here is from the album’s liner notes.

Q&A

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning

Could the roles of the speakers be switched, to me, it would fit the theme more?
Genius Answer

The lyric sheet on Bon Iver’s website is written in the same format as the one here.

Does the track have any certifications?
Genius Answer

On July 25, 2023, “For Emma” was certified gold by the RIAA.

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