John Vanderslice

Overcoat

John Vanderslice


When I was young I was left to fend for myself
A latchkey leaves the door open for anyone else
I met the brothers behind Montgomery Mall
Launching long fluorescent tubes up against the wall

Take me there, take me there
Oh, take me anywhere
Let me be by your side
In revolt
Let me wear your overcoat

We fluttered junior high like a cloud
got grounded in tenth against a chain link fence
They were sent away to trade school when summer set
I got left once again to fend for myself

Take me there, take me there
Oh, take me anywhere
Let me be by your side
Don't say no
Let me wear your overcoat

She rose Olympic from out of the pool
The pinking shears in her had bright like a dagger
I stood before her in nothing but my overcoat
Held up my sleeve torn and tattered

Take me there, take me there
Oh, take me anywhere
Let me be by your side
Don't say no
Let me keep my overcoat