Lyrics
Walkin' five blocks every day to earn my keep
Engaging in a daily routine of walking five blocks to earn a living.
It ain't easy when you're walkin' on these streets
Highlighting the challenges of navigating tough streets while walking.
Runnin' on a tightrope it's a real thin line
Describing life as a precarious balance, where danger is ever-present.
Thinkin' that you might die this time
Expressing the constant fear of potential death in the dangerous environment.
Some things will never change, a street education
Reflecting on the permanence of certain aspects of street life as a form of education.
So close yet so far, just a block from the station
Describing the proximity to safety (the station) yet the struggle to reach it.
Standin' on the corner, I might get taken out
Fearing the possibility of violence while standing on the street corner.
Five blocks to the subway, just five blocks away
Emphasizing the distance to the subway, a central point of escape.
Five blocks to the subway, I can do that any day
Expressing the ease with which the journey to the subway can be accomplished.
There's a local wise guy he owns the whole damn block
Introducing a local figure with significant influence over the neighborhood.
It's easy doin' business when you're payin' off the cops
Highlighting corruption and the ease of conducting illegal activities by paying off authorities.
Makin' money pushin' drugs wouldn't stop if he could
Indicating the relentless pursuit of profit, even through illegal means.
Killin' kids in his own damn neighborhood
Criticizing the destructive impact of criminal activities on the community.
Watch out for muggers and the pickpockets beware
Warning about the constant threat of theft and violence on the streets.
You get to play these games when you pay transit fare
Linking participation in dangerous games to the necessity of paying for public transit.
Trials and tribulations, a journey made each day
Describing the daily struggles and challenges faced on the journey.
This is my reality,the hardest game to play
Affirming the harsh reality of the depicted life as an arduous game.
Standin' on the platform and I'm waiting for the train
Waiting for public transportation as a part of the daily routine.
Good thing I'm underground, now it's startin' to rain
Appreciating the shelter provided by being underground when it starts to rain.
Always stand alone, hold the wall up with my back
Emphasizing a sense of isolation and self-reliance while waiting.
Or else you might get pushed on to the tracks
Warning about the potential danger of being pushed onto the train tracks.
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