NYC Ghosts & Flowers

When the phone rang, 3 in the morning

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 mattress

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

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?

Push back the hours?

I hear your voice, I speak your name

Among New York City ghosts and flowers

Will we meet? To run again?

Thru New York City ghosts and flowers