Baby in the cradle   I need to stay strong   I need some ease   before long   and all the world around me   is still in love with war   and I must teach that baby   that love is what life is for      And you may help me   pretty daddy   but you can never lead me   ’cause you don’t seem to hear me   gonna talk to a green tree   talk to a green tree   green tree—   what am I gonna do?   what am I gonna do?   I’m a working woman   with a baby on my back   won’t you see me through      Wind in the treetops   flame in the song   mother, I need your wise words   but you died before he was born   and all the world around me   is still in love with war   and I must teach that baby, mama   that love is   what life is for      And you have fire   little child   and we are growing   and I could really fly   with you by the green tree   we’ll lie by the green tree   green tree—   we’re your company   we’re your company   I’m a workin’ woman   with a baby on my back   I need some energy      Listen, pretty daddy   you can take my place   childcare and home   is no disgrace   but eight days a week   may wilt your wild flower   and after you’ve done it all   big daddy   be ready for the midnight hour      And you—society   you can never lead me   ’cause you don’t seem to hear me   gonna talk to a green tree   talk to a green tree   green tree—   what am I gonna do   to set my spirit free?   I’m a workin’ woman   with a baby on my back   I need some energy