Once I loved . . .
and I gave so much love to this love
it was the world to me!

Once I cried . . .
at the thought I was foolish an' proud
and let you say goodbye!

Then, one day . . .
from my infinite sadness you came
and brought me love again!

Now I know . . .
that no matter whatever befalls
I'll never let you go!

I will hold you close . . . make you stay
because love is the saddest thing
when it goes away . . .

. . . love is the saddest thing
when it goes away . . .

< instrumental break >

I will hold you close . . . make you stay
because love is the saddest thing
when it goes away . . .

. . . love is the saddest thing
when it goes away . . .

. . . when it goes away . . .

Music by Antonio Carlos Jobim
with lyrics by Vinicius De Moraes
English lyrics by Ray Gilbert