How can a poor man stand such times and live? lyrics

There once was a time when everything was cheap

But now prices nearly puts a man to sleep

When we pay our grocery bill

We just feel like making our will

Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live

I remember when dry goods were cheap as dirt

We could take two bits and buy a dandy shirt

Now we pay three bucks or more

Maybe get a shirt that another man wore

Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live

Prohibition's good if it's conducted right

There's no sense shooting a man till he shows flight

Officers kill without a cause

Then complain about the funny laws

Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live

Most all preachers preach for gold and not for souls

That's what keeps a poor man always in a hole

We can hardly get our breath

Taxed and schooled and preached to death

Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live

It's time for every man to be awake

We pay fifty cents a pound when we ask for steak

When we get our package home

A little wad of paper with gristle and a bone

Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live

The doctor comes around with a face all bright

He says in a little while you'll be all right

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

• Artist:Deborah Holland
• Album:The Panic Is On (1997)