“Pancho and Lefty” is a story song, one of the finest of the genre. It tells of a Mexican bandit named Pancho and his friendship with Lefty, the man who ultimately betrays him. Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard made the song famous with their 1983 duet.
Poor old Pancho left what he could have been for what he could never be. So many individuals throughout time have made the same delusional trade. Dreams turn into nightmares when you’re on the road that runs contrary to society’s values.
Living on the road my friend
Was gonna keep you free and clean
And now you wear your skin like iron
And your breath as hard as kerosene
Weren’t your mama’s only boy
But her favorite one it seems
She began to cry when you said goodbye
And sank into your dreams
The Bible also gives advice about taking a road that leads to life. It describes the pitfalls and snares that can trip up a young man and bring about destruction.
My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother;
My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent.
My son, do not walk in the way with them, Keep your foot from their path;
What are you thinking, Boy?
Give it some thought.
Gary