The Richest Man Alive

I been wiping my ass with paper towels.
Living on mac and cheese.
I been hanging out at the local bars
with a look on my face that says please.
I been rolling cigarettes
from butts out of the ashtray.
Not a single penny earned.
Not a single penny saved.

But last night I met this lady
down at the local dive.
And as she smiled ate me,
it was easy to see —
I was the richest man alive.
Beautiful lady smiling at me,

yes, I am good. Yes, I am free.

Been washing my socks in my clawfoot tub
and dryin’ ’em on the radiator.
Been eating half of a balogna sandwich
and saving the rest for later.
I’ve been writing poems on cardboard
and singing on the corner for change!
At best, it’s serving the Lord.
At worst, it’s standing in the rain.

I’ve been tying my broken strings
and using my coffee grounds twice.
I’ve been visiting all my better-off friends
and offering them my advice.
I’ve been walking through this winter world.
Loving every little sip of beer.
I’ve been sending myself postcards
saying, I made it! Wish you were here.