Written by John Mellencamp



The old paper mill stinks up the beaches

As I walk along the ocean shore.

I'm just a plain man, thoughts full of creases,

Haven't accomplished much, but I dream of more.



Mansions in heaven, I see myself walking with the King.

The angels are descending to wrap me up in red velveteen.



I don't control much of my home life,

I'm not an old man but I'm not young anymore.

Haven't kept in contact with any of my good friends,

So I live with strangers and sleep on another man's floor.



Mansions in heaven, I see myself walking with the King.

The angels are descending to wrap me up in red velveteen.



As I pack my suit bag 'cause soon I'll be leaving,

Going back to the earth which is where I come from.

Withstood the heartache,

Kept on believing,

It ain't winning or losing

Just the singing of the song.



Mansions in heaven, I see myself walking with the King.

Mansions in heaven.



The old paper mill stinks up the beaches

As I walk along the ocean shore