Red is the Color

Music and Lyrics by Steve Earle, from the album,
Washington Square Serenade

North wind blowin` like a hurricane house
Old man leanin` like he`s pullin` a plow
Neck bowed, bendin` like a willow bough

Red sky color of the end of time
Bleeds dry runnin` down the center line
Wise guy pretends he doesn`t see the signs

Bad news everybody talkin` `bout
A short fuse a half an inch from burnin` out
All used up beyond a reasonable doubt

Make way for his majesty the prodigal king
Still taste the poison when you`re kissin` the ring
Don`t say he never gave you anything

Deep breath the calm before the storm begins
Cold sweat pretend that you ain`t listenin`
Don`t bet on gettin` by with that again

Short ride from here to where the beast resides
Fine line that separates the shadows inside
Make mine a double shot of cyanide