Discover the story of the song > Hard Times of Old England – Steeleye Span

The protagonist is struggling to find work in England and can't afford basic necessities like food and shoes for their family. They see other tradesmen in the same situation and some are even resorting to theft. Even soldiers coming back from war are struggling to survive. However, the protagonist hopes for better times in the future and sings about the good times they hope to experience in Old England.