Knight of the Road

He's rode the rods from California to the state of Maine. Long ago he rejected ordinary life with absolute disdain! He loves the gypsies' life - he craves neither hearth or dwellin'. Where he'll lay his head tonight, there just ain't no tellin'! He travels in boxcars with bums and thieves eludin' the 'bulls', That bane of tramps who'd just as soon bash their skulls! He cares not one tittle about its routin' nor final destination. Shucks! To him it's another all-expenses paid vacation! He may choose to visit Florida to enjoy its balmy breezes, Colorado, Texas, Wisconsin or anywhere he pleases! He'll need some cash, though steady work ain't his style, So he may head to Oregon to pick apples for a while! He'll stop here and there for a repast of hobo jungle stew, Addin' cadged onions and taters to that pungent brew. On his bourne he'll look for hobo signs on every gate and pole, That might mean beans and bread from some charitable soul! He gladly forsook the vexations of a drab and mundane life. Ain't no way he'll be saddled with bills and a shrewish wife! He's content to abide by the hobo's uncomplicated code, This free roamin' vagabond, this hardy Knight of the Road! (25 April 2012)