Boys I've shaven my knuckled head, for to cushion my pillow case Boys I've traded the laces of my boots, for 'em I got an ol' spoon, now to get some food ~ Boys I've sold off my last buttons of brass, they got me a loaf of bread, now to make it last Every night I sing all the boys to sleep, in the nights dark war hard boys join me... weep ~ Boys I've got no of nothin' left to trade, so I cut off my ear and went to the gate The unsmiling guards, in their buffalo voices said, 'we need more' I severed my left hand I pulled all my teeth, I left on my right hand to wield my piece I disconnected my testicles, gave 'em to the prison guards, but, the guards said we need more ~ HANG ALL MY BELONGINGS ON A ONE INCH NAIL