The Lyrics Lettering 00018-Visiting Hours by Ed Sheeran (including my reimagined lyrics from the other side of Heaven)

The Work

The Inspiration

I have been a fan of Ed Sheeran since his first album. While his recent music may not resonate with me as much personally, I still enjoy listening to his songs on repeat.

However, I must say that "Visiting Hours" is his masterpiece. It is incredibly emotional and powerful; I could feel his emotions in every moment of the song. The concept of heaven having visiting hours, so we never feel too far from those who have passed away, has stayed with me since I first heard it. I even wish there could be a movie based on this idea!

I love the song so much that I even created a reimagined version from the perspective of the departed. I will include it below in case you are interested. In essence, it conveys the message, "You no longer need me, so go out and live your life. You will be okay. You've got this!"

I wish that heaven had visiting hours
So I could just swing by and ask your advice
What would you do in my situation? I haven't a clue how I'd even raise them
What would you do? 'Cause you always do what's right
Can we just talk a while until my worries disappear?
I'd tell you that I'm scared of turnin' out a failure
You'd say, "Remember that the answer's in the love that we create"
So much has changed since you've been away I wish that heaven had visiting hours
And I would ask them if I could take you home
But I know what they'd say, that it's for the best
So I will live life the way you taught me, and make it on my own
And I will close the door, but I will open up my heart
And everyone I love will know exactly who you are
'Cause this is not goodbye, it is just 'til we meet again
So much has changed since you've been away

The Process

I believe that each line could stand alone as a lettering piece. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I had to select the most impactful lines in my opinion.

I am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I have only just completed the digital version of my initial draft for this lettering project.

This was due to a lettering course that required my attention, leaving me with little time for personal projects like this one. 

Therefore, instead, I am sharing with you the reimagined version of the song lyrics I wrote some time ago.

Visiting Hours (Reimagined: a conversation from the other side)

I wish that Heaven had visiting hours
So you could just show up and bring your news
I’d love every hour, hearing ‘bout you and the girls
The way you raise your daughter, I am so proud of you.
You can stay here a while, and we will talk ‘till the world feels right.
To see how much you’ve grown, it’s time you need your favorite wine
And now they’re goin’ to close, so go and live another day
So much has changed, but you’ll be fine again. I wish that Heaven had visiting hours
So I could throw my arms and just hold you tight. 
No matter what circumstances 
I always just knew/that you’d/be great parents
Whatever you do, I’m sure you will do what’s right
Let me kiss your worries until they all just disappear 
I’d tell you that 'mistakes won’t turn you into a failure’ 
I’d say, 'Remember that the answer’s in the love that we create'
I know things’s changed, but it will be okay.  I wish that Heaven had visiting hours  
So I could guide you, then I’d lead you back home  
And you know what I’d say, that ‘it’s for the best’
Now go and live life the way you wanted
And make it all your own. 
I will hold your door so you can open up your heart
Then everyone you love will know exactly who you are
‘cause this is not goodbye, I’ll live in memories, always 
So much has changed, but you will be okay.