Skinny Lou, you used to be that I couldn't see you sideways
Skinny Lou, many times I wish I could be like you
Turn away from the bay in my own ways
Just like you do, Skinny Lou

There's a pull I can feel like gravity, grabbing me sideways
The water railway station ticket to take me out of this town
Leave me somewhere standing with the rain upon my face again and again

Oh, is it true you used to run with constellations?
And the rock-a-billy boys will never see
Your artistry of taking your whole world in without taking it all on
Because you know it will be your skinny shoulders it rests upon

Skinny Lou, I've a mind to sew a tapestry this time
For it feels like gold in the pocket of a coat
It would be easy to forget you ever had
To have it we do, me and you

Oh, is it true you used to run with constellations?
And the rock-a-billy boys will never see
Your artistry of taking, taking your whole world in without taking it all on
For you know it will be your skinny shoulders it rests upon

Yes, you know it will be your skinny shoulders it rests upon
Oh, you know it will be your skinny shoulders it rests upon