Meaning of "Poor Old Dirt Farmer" by Levon Helm

The song "Poor Old Dirt Farmer" by Levon Helm paints a bleak picture of a man who has faced multiple hardships in life. The repeated refrain of losing his corn and not being able to pay off his loan symbolizes the cyclical nature of poverty and financial struggle. The imagery of the farmer growing stones instead of crops reflects his inability to make a living from the land. The farmer's isolation, with his family leaving him, underscores his loneliness and despair. The tragic accident with the tractor not only serves as a physical blow but also highlights the farmer's inability to escape his hardships. Overall, the song portrays the downward spiral of a man who is trapped in a cycle of poverty, loss, and ultimately, isolation.