|
They may pull up the streets and push down the homes
But the memories linger deep in their bones
This land was nourished by an immigrant tide
They'd live, they'd love, and they'd work side by side
To cobble together their own neighborhoods
And carve out a future the best that they could
Their strong backs were welcomed to help build some dreams
But along with the blueprints, there were always some schemes
They built other's fortunes without any rest
But their share of the prize was a sliver, at best
They may pull up the streets and push down the homes
But the memories linger deep in their bones
Soon, it wasn't convenient - since the goal was achieved
And the folks in the North End were told they must leave
Business is business - no hard feelings, of course
But greed mixed with progress is a powerful force
The path must be cleared so get your dreams packed
The future is knocking, and there's no looking back
Where you go is your problem, but this cannot be new
It's the way of the world for people like you
They may pull up the streets and push down the homes
But the memories linger deep in their bones
So they gathered their pride, said goodbye to those days
When the grownups could dream and their children could play
And their hopes were then buried 'neath a vacant lot
Because men without conscience were calling the shots
But the strongest machines couldn't break down their hearts
You see, they were experts at making new starts
They learned to survive those evils men bring
And risen from ruins to walk among kings
They may pull up the streets and push down the homes
But the memories linger deep in their bones
Though they pulled up their streets and pushed down their homes
Memories and pride linger deep in their bones
| 
