The Meaning Behind The Song: Poverty Train by Laura Nyro

The song opens with the repeated lines “Last call for the poverty train.” This immediately sets the tone for the song, suggesting a sense of urgency and finality. The imagery of a train represents the relentless and cyclic nature of poverty, with individuals hopping on and off, always caught in its grip.

In the verses, Nyro paints a gritty picture of a world distorted by poverty. She sings about the harsh reality of living on the fringes, where getting beat or taking a trip is the norm. The walls roar, brains are scattered on the floor, and one can become god, cripple, or funky and split. These lines reveal the desperation felt by those trapped in poverty, forced to adapt to survive.

The chorus, with the repeated phrase “Why was I born?” underscores the sense of hopelessness and unfairness that poverty can bring. Nyro’s emotional vocals convey the weight and anguish of this question. It’s a cry from the heart, questioning the circumstances that have led to such a challenging existence.

Another verse highlights the impact of poverty on familial relationships. Nyro sings about the devil, personifying the destructive forces poverty unleashes. The devil plays with her brother, drives her mother, and the tears in the gutter flood the sea. This imagery suggests the deep pain and suffering poverty can inflict on individuals and their families.

The bridge of the song amplifies the atmosphere, with Nyro describing the allure of the city lights and the transitory nature of life on the streets. She acknowledges the hunger and disregard for the future, reflecting the struggle for survival that often takes precedence over long-term stability.

The song concludes with the powerful lines, “I swear there’s something better than getting off on sweet cocaine. It feels so good, getting off the poverty train.” These lines offer a glimmer of hope, suggesting that there must be something better than the temporary escape provided by drugs. Nyro conveys a desire for a way out of the cycle of poverty, a longing for a brighter future.

“Poverty Train” resonates with me deeply on a personal level. Growing up in a working-class family, I witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by individuals trying to break free from the clutches of poverty. This song captures the despair, frustration, and yearning for change that permeate the lives of many in similar circumstances.

The raw emotions in Nyro’s voice and the evocative lyrics make “Poverty Train” a timeless piece of music that continues to shed light on the pervasive issue of poverty. It serves as a reminder that behind the statistics and headlines, there are real people struggling to overcome the challenges poverty presents.

In conclusion, “Poverty Train” by Laura Nyro is a profound song that explores the impact of poverty on individuals and their communities. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt vocals, Nyro exposes the harsh realities faced by those trapped in the cycle of poverty. This song serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of individuals facing adversity and the need for collective action to address poverty in our society.