The American Nomad
~~~
I hear the train whistle blowing
Steel wheels sing clickety-clack
The music of tanker and box car
A symphony of timber and track
~~~
It calls for me to travel on
Of the miles ahead there be many
I gather up my bindlestiff
Throw on my cap and Benny
~~~
She pulls a herd of Blackjacks but
An empty freight car is all I need
The travelling home for a hobo
Pulled hard by the steaming steed
~~~
With a belly full of rock soup
There are adventures to be had
And such is the wandering life
Of the great American nomad
~~~
commonsensiblyspeaking 
That easily brought back the many visuals from those “old-time” Western movies! Well written!
Thanks, sis!
I love the descriptor “Steaming Steed” and the word, “bindlestiff”; I never heard that one before. This poem makes me think about our collective fascination with hobos and transients, as if we realize, deep down, that they enjoy a freedom we only dare fantasize about.
Thank you, Sudra! They have a language all to themselves with some great words like “bindlestiff”. I do think we fantasize about the freedom they have and enjoy. I appreciate your kind support!
In my mind, I’m a nomad of many different times. There’s so much to love about this. Beautiful! Sending love and hugs dear friend. 💛🤗
I could tell you had a little nomad in you. Thank you so much for the love, hugs, and kind support! You are the best! 💖🌹🥰
Aww 🥰 you’re welcome! You are too! Happy Friday! ❤️🥰🤗
This has a great rhythm and made me think about all the times I’ve watched the trains go by and wondered what would happen if I just hopped on one.
Thank you, Bridgette! I think we have all wondered what that kind of freedom would be like. What adventures we would have!
Very nice
Thank you kindly!
I am fascinated by all the nomad lifestyles (I also loved the movie Nomad).
I think we all covet the freedom and rejection of material things. Thank you, Geoff! You would make a great hobo.
such a fascinating poem about those who travel when and where they please in their own time and own way.
Thank you, Beth! They turned being homeless into a lifestyle.
Like Geoff, I am fascinated by the traveling or nomad lifestyle. I’m too much of a homebody, but I am intrigued by those who make the world their home.
Makes for great stories around the campfire. Thank you, Pete!