Wharf Rat Lyrics

Lyric discussion by greatdanton 

Cover art for Wharf Rat lyrics by Grateful Dead

I always thought it had something to do with a pearly baker being a crack pipe, and the wharf rat trying to quit and get back on his feet again. Thats why they called the sober deadheads "wharf rats" at concerts back in the day.

i doubt it. i could be considered a wharf rat, even tho i dont consider myself one. but it is most likely used in that context all because of the folling lines (and that is all).... The other half found me stumbling around drunk on Burgundy wine But I'll get back on my feet again someday The good Lord willin', if He says I may I know that the life I'm livin's no good I'll get a new start; live the life I should