The Island of Salt and Grass Lyrics

I was just a child when my mother
took me to that train
In her wistful eyes she knew
we wouldn't see soon again
Slowly through the countryside
the landscape blent in mist
but suddenly oh, such a sight
and my heart missed a beat

Rising from the foam
as if by magic, a city appeared
where boats, black as pitch
and white as ice, reigned supreme
The majestic church
threw its shadow over all
and like a lofty guardian
the bell tower rang its toll

"I am the island of salt and grass
I am the island of gold and glass
A father's caress on your tired head
I will take care of you
and give you all the things you couldn't have"

In the entrance of the school
there was a swarm of kids
All dressed like little sailors
I'd have become one of these
I felt misplaced but a companion
took me by the hand
Oh, so short and yet so intense
it was your life, my friend

"I am the island of salt and grass
I am the island of sun and wax
A heartening smile when you feel sad
I will take care of you
and give you all the things you couldn't have"

Saying that I'm grateful is not enough
to express what you meant and still mean
Though many years have gone
you're an indelible part of me

My beloved island of salt and grass
My beloved island of tears and laughs
A mistress of life through my best days
I will keep your image dear
A memory out of time that will never fade