I've seen troubles all my day
I'm goin' back to California,
Place where I was partly raised.

All through this world,
I'm bound to ramble.
Through storm and wind,
Through sleet and rain

I'm bound to ride,
That northern railroad.
Perhaps I'll take
The very next train.

Your friends, they say
I am a stranger
You'll never see
My face no more

There is just one
Promise that's given
We'll sail on
God's golden shore

I am a man of constant sorrow
I've seen troubles all my day
I'm goin' back to California,
Place where I was partly raised