He rubs the calfskin till it glows
While the cold river water flows
The scent of tannins fills the room
A heavy scent of leather bloom
Counting steps on the terrace stone
Walking fast and walking alone
Paris roofs in a slate gray line
Scent of soil and a twist of lime
Triticum grows in a window pot
The humid air is getting hot
He stitches seams with a silver thread
While the evening turns a dusty red
Counting steps on the terrace stone
Walking fast and walking alone
Paris roofs in a slate gray line
Scent of soil and a twist of lime
Plectranthus leaves are deep and green
The cleanest sight he has ever seen
He polishes a heavy boot
While the ivy takes a steady root
Counting steps on the terrace stone
Walking fast and walking alone
Paris roofs in a slate gray line
Scent of soil and a twist of lime
The iron rail feels cold and thin
Where the city's heavy rhythms spin
He counts the beat of the passing crowd
The clicking heels are sharp and loud
Counting steps on the terrace stone
Walking fast and walking alone
Paris roofs in a slate gray line
Scent of soil and a twist of lime
Just one more step
Just one more line
Leather and lime
