Hobo's Lullaby
Bruce Springsteen & Pete Seeger Lyrics
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Let the towns drift slowly by
Can't you hear the steel rail humming
That's a hobo's lullaby
Do not think about tomorrow
Let tomorrow come and go
Tonight you're in a nice warm boxcar
I know the police cause you trouble
They cause trouble everywhere
But when you die and go to heaven
You won't find no policemen there
I know your clothes are torn and ragged
And your hair is turning grey
Lift your head and smile at trouble
You'll find happiness some day
So go to sleep you weary hobo
Let the towns drift slowly by
Don't you feel the steel rail humming
That's a hobo's lullaby
The song "Hobo's Lullaby" by Bruce Springsteen and Pete Seeger speaks to the experience of those who live their lives traveling from place to place, searching for a better life or simply trying to survive. The lyrics encourage the "weary hobo" to let go of their worries and find rest in the rhythm of the railway tracks. The hobo's life is one of uncertainty, facing harsh elements, and constant threat from law enforcement. But even in the midst of this struggle, the song suggests that there is hope for happiness and peace.
The lyrics remind the hobo not to worry about tomorrow, but to live in the present moment by finding comfort in a warm boxcar. Despite the hardships involved, the song also suggests a certain level of freedom in the lifestyle of a hobo. The lyrics highlight the sense of community that can be found among fellow travelers, with a shared experience of facing adversity and seeking a better future. The hobo's lullaby is the sound of freedom, a connection to a way of life that is rooted in the railway tracks and the possibility of new horizons.
Line by Line Meaning
To sleep you weary hobo
Close your tired eyes and rest, exhausted traveler
Let the towns drift slowly by
Allow the towns to pass you by at a leisurely pace
Can't you hear the steel rail humming
Listen to the reassuring sound of the rails on the track
That's a hobo's lullaby
This is the comforting song of the wandering and homeless
Do not think about tomorrow
Forget about the uncertainties of the future
Let tomorrow come and go
Allow the future to unfold on its own, without your worries
Tonight you're in a nice warm boxcar
You are safe and warm in a sheltered train car for the night
Safe from all the wind and snow
Protected from the harshness of nature and the elements
I know the police cause you trouble
I understand that the authorities give you a hard time
They cause trouble everywhere
They are a source of trouble and conflict, no matter where you go
But when you die and go to heaven
But in the hereafter, when your life has ended and you reach paradise
You won't find no policemen there
You will find peace and safety, without the interference of law enforcement
I know your clothes are torn and ragged
I understand that your clothing is worn and tattered
And your hair is turning grey
And your hair is losing its color with age
Lift your head and smile at trouble
Rise up and face adversity with a positive attitude
You'll find happiness some day
Eventually, you will discover contentment and joy
So go to sleep you weary hobo
Sleep soundly, exhausted traveler
Let the towns drift slowly by
Allow the towns to pass you by at a leisurely pace
Don't you feel the steel rail humming
Can't you sense the reassuring sound of the train tracks
That's a hobo's lullaby
This is the comforting song of the wandering and homeless
Lyrics © THE BICYCLE MUSIC COMPANY
Written by: GOEBEL REEVES
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
tomjwhite1972
You have to credit the banjo and fiddle in this song -- such a peculiarly American kind of music. 100 years from now, you kind of know which music will withstand the eraser of time. My money is on Dylan, Seeger, Harris, and Springsteen to be remembered and celebrated.
jane joensen
Wonderful, song and wonderful singer...... <3
Scott English
It takes awhile to develop an ear for roots music, but it's well worth the effort!
ASSOCIAZIONE NEBRASKA
very rare, thank you, a gem
decco83
If you like this kind of song, listen to Ian Scott singing "Skysail Jack", on YouTube. Skysail was the hobo that could ride any train. an American folk hero almost airbrushed out of existence.