When the phone rang, 3 in the morn Dead middle of night There was nothing on the line I set back the silent receiver Tiny flames lit in my head Hey did any of you freaks here ever remember Lenny? I can't remember his last name He's turned to dust now, one of the chosen few Left out in the rain, out of town again Left out in the rain, ocean bound I guess
Between the matress and a column of hazy faces I remember every word you said Quite a clear picture, every word you said The door was open but the way was not lit And there was no way out of my head
On a crimson highway by a chrome bumper I last saw you Alive, inclined to thrive Evening fireflies lit sparks around your head
But wait a minute let's back up a bit: Some famous stars were busted By the thought police down on fashion avenue Impersonating real men Not knowing who they really were Now here at dark corners all is calm and quiet and good The kids are up late dreaming Quiet questions in a graceful mood:
Can you please pass me a jug of winter light? Fold me in an ocean's whim? In sweet corrosive fire light? In the city made of tin?
Are you famous under the skin? Familiar with the things you wanted? Able now to take it all in? Making peace with every hole in the story?
Did lightning keep you up all night? Illuminate the soot and grit? Can you tell how high the sky tonight? Dig out from under in spite of it?
Can you cover up the one that floats? Can you push back the hours? I hear your voice, I speak your name Among NYC ghosts and flowers Will we meet to run again? Through NYC ghosts and flowers