When we were you we'd sail on great bicycles, through fields and over the car parks
Crashing down at the corner store and fumbling with change to buy sweets and crisps
The old lady, incomprehensible, would threaten as we ran, pockets bulging and laughing at the wind
Back to the skate park and we'd giggle as we caught a breath and the boys would be fighting
Ah, I remember climbing the solemn tree atop the hill, looking into yards and tearing our clothes
We'd steal shiny jewels from the wheels of cars parked on each street, and trade once we were home
Do you remember the magazines we'd read, the popular lyrics being recited 'neath a sturdy table
Waking with the dawn and lighting matches on the climbing frame, letting fire fall through the air
Dear friend the trouble we'd cause and the trouble that followed
I still see the faces as we ran from street gangs attempting theft, our mothers would never allow such things
Yet we disappointed them, and the tree was cut down by the preacher man
We'd knock every door and scatter to safety, heartily laughing at childhood innocence
Oh and hopping from garden to garden, free spirits and free from concern
I wish we were still young

But life broke us all, the town collapsed atop us and we suffocated
I remember your blonde hair in the wind and the way you smelt
And how we'd kiss as we played life in mattress houses
Now I see you about town with the boys, and you're now a boy
Hooting at the ladies and jeering as the Reds concede another goal
Your face still pretty, bright and freckled, I'm still confused
And I, jaded and alone, sit here and ruminate on life's folly
The sadness that our town bestowed upon me still weighs heavy
For the abuser still walks these streets and I still cower
As the powder takes another victim, more battered faces
I curse the poverty and all it brings.