How Can a Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live

Well, the doctor comes around with a face so bright
And he says: In a little while, you'll be all right
But all he gives is a humbug pill
A dose of dope and a great big bill
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?

He says: Me and my old school pals had some might high times 'round here
And what happened to you poor black folks, well, it just ain't fair
He took a look around, gave a little pep talk
Said: I'm with you, then he took a little walk
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?

There's bodies floatin' on Canal and the levees gone to hell
Martha, get me my sixteen gauge and some dry shells
Them who's got got out of town
And them who ain't got left to drown
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?

I got family scattered from Texas to Baltimore
And I ain't got no home in this world no more
Gonna be a judgment, that's a fact
A righteous train rollin' down this track
How can a poor man stand such times and live?
How can a poor man stand such times and live?
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?