Meaning of "I've Been Working On The Railroad" by Pete Seeger

"I've Been Working On The Railroad" delves into the monotony and hard work of laboring on the railroad all day, highlighting the mundane aspects of manual labor and the longing for something to break the monotony. The repetition in the lyrics reflects the repetitive nature of the work itself, emphasizing the physical toll and mental exhaustion that can accompany working long hours. The mention of Dinah blowing her horn and someone playing the banjo adds a touch of music and companionship to an otherwise challenging and tedious job, showing the importance of camaraderie and bonding in getting through difficult tasks. The song captures the essence of the working class and the desire for simple pleasures, like music and shared moments, in the midst of arduous work.