Well, the doctor comes around with his face all bright
And he says, "In a little while you'll be all right"
All he gives is a humbug pill, dose of dope and a great big bill
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?
Well there once was a time when every thing was cheap
But now prices nearly puts a man to sleep
When we get our grocery bill, we just feel like making our will
Tell me, how can a poor man stand such times and live?
Prohibitions good if it's conducted right
There's no sense in shooting a man 'til he shows flight
Officers kill without a cause then they complain about the funny laws
Tell me how can a poor man stand such times and live?