Lyric discussion by unishmaltz 

Cover art for Kathleen lyrics by Townes Van Zandt

well townes had a heroin habit at times, especially in certain Texan cities. I think Kathleen either dealt or had enough to share. he's not in the mood for sunshine, feels like he could die, he has to stop the pain. crystals (powder) across the sand, waves (of relief from the drug) are coming when he sees his sweet Kathleen. that's how I impose sense on this one, not that all of his songs make that kind of sense.