Say, don't you remember, they called me Al— 
It was Al all the time. 
Why don't you remember, I'm your pal— 
Buddy, can you spare a dime? 

The excerpt emphasizes the idea that the problems of the Great Depression

affected all Americans in one way or another.

drove a wedge between people who once were friendly.

brought out the very worst behavior in many Americans.

caused many Americans to experience financial ruin.