No significant societal gains, either technological, sociological or artistic are being made, or have been made in recent memory. Your culture has remained essentially as it is for generations. Rulers tend to emphasise maintaining the status quo.
Poor: very low income. compared to many. He usually does not or cannot own property. His home is usually of lesser quality, sometimes due to uncaring landlords who may also be the Poor person's employer.
Pickpocket: During your youth your family fell on hard times forcing you to turn to petty theft and other criminal activities involving you with criminal organisations.
When you become an adult you learn to used a weapon (of your choice) appropriate for your culture and social standing. (work with your DM to determine details)