The Hobo's Success

I have been a loafer for most of my laid back life,
with little time for friends, no time for a wife.
Oh, the afflictions of responsibility, how does one endure?
Such a terrible waist of youth, why should I mature?

I have no fear of failure, I own nothing as my proof.
I never need to sweep the floor or patch a leaky roof.
I can come and go when I damn well please, or, hit the dusty trail.
And on occasion, I get a free vacation at the local jail.

On my favorite bench one day, as I lay a napping,
I was rudely awakened by a tap, tap, tapping.
A brand new sign on the old oak tree,
so I walked on over, what could it be?
"Attention all children, both young and old, The Big Top Circus is coming to town."
They would be here soon, in a matter of days, just down the rode at the old fair ground.
"With Lions, Tigers and Trapeze Flyers, Elephants, Clowns and Shows on the Side.
Popcorn, Peanuts, Cotton Candy and more, every kind of fun that's ever been tried."

On closer inspection of the very last line,
"Looking to hire local talent, if you're so inclined."
All I have to do is make people laugh?
Folk laughing on my behalf?
Well, these same people have always laughed at me.
There wasn't much difference as far as I could see.

When the circus showed up, I met the Ring Master.
One quick glance, he knew, I was who he was after.
He shook my hand, said, "Every one just calls me Bob,
you've come dressed like a Hobo, so you've got the job."
"Well, thank you kindly Sir, I'll do my best."
Imagine that, ME!, dressed for success!

I hear the crowd roar inside the big top tent.
Another sip from the bottle, I didn't waste on rent.
With that shot of courage, my courage was up,
I wanted to cheer them with my, true makeup.
They were just folks looking to dodge life for awhile.
And the time had come for the clown, with the big fake smile.

As I step into the ring I slip on a big pile of dung,
couldn't carry on for my ankle had sprung.
Doubts descend upon all of my Hopes.
Again, I find success backed up to the ropes.
No sound of laughter, not a single grin,
fate has decided I should not win.

I'm not at all angry, not at all blue,
for fate knows me well, I know it's true.
Hiding behind this fake smiley face,
is my real, honest, smiling face.
For I understand my true success,
to know how to live with no distress.
The irony of my humorous let down,
a real Hobo has failed as a clown.