Where does an old-time river man go
After he's passed away?
Does his soul still keep a watch on the deep
For the rest of his river days?
Does he then come back as a channel cat?
Or the wasp that lied on the wheat?
Or the birds that fly through summer sky?
Or the fish swimmin' under the key?

Where does an old-time pilot go
After he stood his last watch?
Does he fall by the ear of the man who steers
Sayin' "Hold her on that notch"?

There's a gentle sneeze in the river breeze
It's sayin', "Son, I'm goin' to bed"
And the light that pipes and go off in the night
Or was it fireflies instead?

Where does an old-time engineer go
After he's cooled her down?
Gone up the hill to never come back
On the quiet side of town
Does his soul live on in the engine's soul
While the striker checks the gears?
Is he still afloat on an old steamboat
After he's gone from here?