i grew up under mountains that hid and held me
fogs spilled in and broke my fevers
or roads lifted me into clear air

but this city grinds
everything into a mirror finish
and offers only fitful relief
when i see the worst in it
it sees the worst in me

i don't know how to keep my love alive here
a snake's head asking for a mercy killing
left my body's heart's home behind
a snake's head asking for a mercy killing

i don't recognize any constellations
that would offer direction through the night
or shaded glens
offering respite from the heat

i don't know how to keep my love alive here
a snake's head asking for a mercy killing
left my body's heart's home behind
a snake's head asking for a mercy killing