Lyrics
Homeless guy I walk by every single day
Observation of a homeless person encountered daily
He seems so nice but people always turn away
Perceived kindness of the homeless person, but society's avoidance
One day I stood with him and we talked for a while
Engagement in conversation with the homeless person
He seemed so happy, sadness in his smile
The homeless person appears happy outwardly, masking inner sadness
I shook his hand and he said "thank you very much
Expression of gratitude for conversation over material assistance
‘Cause sometimes conversation's just as good as a donation"
Highlighting the value of human interaction for those in need
I didn't understand until he looked at me and said
Initial lack of understanding, prompting further explanation
"Millions like me are freezing tonight
Revelation of the dire situation of many homeless individuals
And no one cares if we live or die
Expression of societal indifference to the homeless crisis
Change in my cup gives me a couple bucks to spend
Receiving spare change for basic needs, though insufficient
But I'd rather be treated like a person again"
Desire for dignified treatment rather than monetary assistance
As I stood with him a business man walked up
Introduction of a business man's indifferent action
A winning smile and threw a wad of gum into his cup
Symbolic act of dehumanization - throwing gum into the cup
I was so angry that I ran and chased him down
Anger leading to a confrontation with the business man
I tapped him on the shoulder and he turned around
Initiating a direct interaction with the business man
I shook my head and I said "you're a fucking dick"
Expressing disapproval and frustration towards the business man
He turned pale and asked me what the fuck I meant
The business man's confusion and seeking clarification
He'll never understand but still I pointed back and said
Asserting that the business man will never comprehend the struggle
"Millions like him are freezing tonight
Reiteration of the widespread suffering of the homeless
And no one cares if they live or die
Emphasizing societal apathy towards the homeless crisis
Change in his cup gives him a couple bucks to spend
Similar situation of the business man - receiving change but desiring respect
But he'd rather be treated like a person again"
Reiterating the universal desire for humane treatment
Again, again, again
Repetition emphasizing the ongoing cycle of neglect
And again and again and again and again
Continued emphasis on the recurring and unaddressed issue
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