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.