I've lived in this town for 13 years I've been around
You see that window in that tower that was mine
Under that fluorescent light, well I made cold calls through the night
To houses deep in suburbs I will never go

Then in Chinatown I'd get something and hang around
How does that busker know each day from the next?
See that man who just brushed past me, well I know him but don't ask me
About him I wonder is he still with his wife

What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?

The ferries pull up in the evening warmth
I used to give out papers here as they rushed on their way home
The streets are full of plaques
Just where that park is used to be a den of wailers, Jesus Christ

What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?

What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?
What is a life?
Of all the jobs I've had, well I can't say they've turned out bad
It's just funny when you think that guy was you
A waiter on his break, he smokes a cigarette
And takes a long look at a repaired paring knife