I was just fiddling around on the guitar one day and this is what came out. I was thinking of stories Bob and Jo Steck used to tell about the 1930's in their respective homes – Bob in Iowa and Jo in New York City. I suppose this song represents the most fundamental message I and others like me are trying to communicate – in union we can achieve anything.
Lyrics
Back in the Depression farmers held the line
When the bank came for an auction together they'd combine
They knew that when divided they could never win
But they stood shoulder to shoulder and didn't let the bankers in
They stood shoulder to shoulder, that's how they kept their farms
If one of them was threatened it was for all to be alarmed
They said this was their land and they'd help each other stay
That's how they kept their farms, that's why the bankers went away
'Cause the union makes us strong (2x)
Back in the Depression there was not enough to eat
But the Union of the Unemployed was in the driver's seat
If the cops did an eviction, took the bed and put it out
The neighbors would carry it in, sing a song and shout
(Chorus)
I can hear him talking, you've got to look at the long view
Back in the Depression almost everybody knew
If competition was so great why don't they do it with themselves
Instead of buying off the Congress and ruling by cartel
(Chorus)
During the Depression people fought and won back then
Now the battle's global and it was must be won again
They will try to divide us but even on the darkest day
While I listen closely I hear a billion people say
(Chorus)
