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Roel van Veldt - I Don't Pump to Survive

from Mantichorean by Stephen Wordsmith

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Recorded for 50 songs in 90 days, 2012.

lyrics

I once met a man on the cracks of a forecourt
Down state highway seventy-five
I remember his smell, like a gas-sodden Camel
And his words, 'I don't pump to survive'

He drew near as I turned the cap on the gas tank
A tattered mesh cap on his head
He must have seen pity in my eyes, for he drawled
'I don't do this for my daily bread

Folk see what I do as no more than a lifeline
For those who refuse to work hard
Who're just passing by to a job more fulfilling
Or fate dealt them no higher cards

But no better life can I see than to live for
The travellers I meet every day
To water the thirsty, breathe life to their journey
And see them off safe on their way'

His clothes were all damp, with petroleum stinking
And his breath held a cigarette smell
But he lived by the wisdom imparted by Lincoln
Whatever you do, do it well

And he waved with a hand that had built him a lifetime
Staid by the road, watching me drive
A man who aspired to no more than his station
But didn't pump just to survive

credits

from Mantichorean, released September 3, 2013
Lyrics by Stephen Wort.
Vocals, composition and all music by Roel van Veldt (roelvanveldt.com)

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Stephen Wordsmith Wellington, New Zealand

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