Meaning of "Hobo's Meditation" by Merle Haggard

The lyrics of "Hobo's Meditation" delve into the existential ponderings of a hobo, wondering about their place in the afterlife. The hobo, who has lived a transient life riding freight trains and seeking shelter in boxcars, contemplates whether the freedom they have known on earth will extend into heaven. They question if they will need to work for a living or if they can continue roaming freely, highlighting their desire for autonomy and independence. The hobo also questions if there will be societal hierarchies in heaven, pondering whether they will be accepted by the rich and respected in the afterlife. These reflections touch on themes of social class, freedom, and the search for belonging, offering a poignant exploration of what happens to those marginalized in society even after death.