The Big Payback
Chasing Redemption: Tales of Hard Work and Rebellion
Lyrics
I bought a scooter and I rented a shack
Starting with modest possessions—a scooter and a rented shack.
Out in the sun, by the railroad track
Living in the open, possibly in a simple, rustic setting.
I got a job and I'm a-breakin' my back
Engaged in hard labor for a job, putting in significant effort.
Workin' and workin' for the big payback
Working diligently, striving for a significant reward or payoff.
I keep a puttin' and a puttin' out
Continuously making efforts or contributions.
I keep a sweatin' like a hog and all
Working intensely and tirelessly.
I work so long that I'm a losin' track
Working for so long that losing track of time becomes common.
Waitin', waitin' on the big payback
Await for the anticipated significant compensation for efforts.
Well, it's a wham, bam, thank you ma'am, god damn, ring out Sam
Expressing a fast-paced, intense sequence of events, possibly referring to life's rapid and harsh realities.
I took on that train rumblin' down this track
A metaphorical journey or experience characterized by challenges.
They got your neck in the noose, you're draggin' long in back
Feeling trapped or constrained while working hard.
And you're a-workin' and workin' for the big payback
Continuing to work for a substantial reward.
Oh what my foreman does well I don't know
Uncertainty or lack of understanding about the supervisor's actions.
He just throws me a shovel and yells "Go, Bobby, Go"
Supervisor's instructions to work without much guidance.
Oh well-a all day long he's just a busy wise crack
Supervisor engaging in constant joking or banter while employees toil.
While I'm sweatin' and sweatin' the big payback
Continued hard work despite the supervisor's behavior.
Well, it's a wham, bam, thank you ma'am, god damn, ring out Sam
Recurrence of intense, fast-paced events, possibly hardships.
I took on that train rumblin' down this track
Reiterating the metaphor of a challenging journey.
They got your neck in the noose, your hands are tied up in back
Feeling constrained and restricted while putting in effort.
And you're a-workin' and workin' for the big payback
Consistently working hard for a substantial payoff.
I quit that job, and Mister I ain't goin' back
Deciding to quit a job and not intending to return.
Got me a knife and she's a long and bad
Possibly implying readiness for confrontation with a weapon.
I'll tell you how I make the peace with that man
Intention to settle a score with someone.
Down in the alley of the big payback
Seeking retribution or justice for past grievances.
Well, it's a wham, bam, thank you ma'am, god damn, ring out Sam
Reiteration of fast-paced, intense events leading to conflict.
I took on that train rumblin' down this track
Continuation of the metaphor of a challenging journey.
I got your neck in the noose and I don't give a damn, Jack
Indifference or defiance towards the consequences, perhaps seeking revenge.
I'm on that long-lost highway of the big payback
Choosing a path where the desired 'payback' is pursued regardless of consequences.
I'm on that long-lost highway of the big payback
Reaffirming the choice to pursue a path seeking retribution or justice.
I'm on that long-lost highway of the big payback
Continuing on the path seeking substantial retribution or justice.
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