Poor Boy

Steve Forbert · Other Songs - Steve Forbert

He's always alone, wrapped up in his plight

With his hands in his pockets he's walkin' in the night

With his dark eyes lookin'; he's a poor boy

His dark eyes lookin'; he's a poor boy



He can't seem to keep any buttons on his clothes

And the shoes on his feet are pinching on his toes

And his hair wants a cuttin'; he's a poor boy

His hair wants a cuttin'; he's a poor boy



[Chorus:]

Hey (now, now) poor boy

What's it all about?

Hey, poor boy

Can you hear me when I shout?



Well, he's workin' everyday, slavin' for his pay

And all the pretty women - they love to swish and sway

And they always overlook him; he's a poor boy

They always overlook him; he's a poor boy



Well, May turns into June, walking through the park

And way off in his world he's a-dreamin' in the dark

With his mind on fire; he's a poor boy

His mind on fire; he's a poor boy



[Chorus]



Well, the streets are alive, every body laughs

People come and go, and they're snappin' photographs

And he's over by the river; he's a poor boy

He's over by the river; he's a poor boy



Well, spring has come and gone now

And how much time you got?

Time's a-flyin' by, yes, and summer's gettin' hot, and he's

Listenin' to the thunder; he's a poor boy

He's listenin' to the thunder; he's a poor boy



[Chorus]

Poor Boy

Steve Forbert's "Poor Boy" stands as a testament to his enduring influence on the American roots music landscape. Emerging from the fertile songwriting scene of the late 1970s, Forbert carved a unique path that blended folk storytelling with the raw energy of rock. This recording captures his signature acoustic-driven sound, characterized by witty observations and a distinctively conversational vocal delivery. While often associated with his breakthrough hit "Roxanne," Forbert's broader discography reveals a consistent ability to craft intimate narratives that resonate with listeners across generations. "Poor Boy" reflects the earnest, character-driven approach that defined his early work, showcasing a musician deeply committed to the craft of songwriting. The track remains a vital piece of his catalogue, illustrating the timeless quality of his compositions and his significant role in shaping the genre.