The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should
And I know all the things you hide
Even though it's a good disguise
And we see all the things you do
And what you do will comeback on you
You think we can't fight what the eyes can't see
Because we are blinded by poverty

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

It's like the people you want them to rebel
And fire gunshots and burn buildings to hell
And after that you a go want treat me well
It's like you have the people under a spell
Talking to the people in a congress
A we vote you in, so you must put out your best
After all we no in a contest
It's the state of the union address

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

Broadcasting lies on the television sreen
Trying to get us hooked on your american dream
We up on your games if you know wha me mean
When you cheated on your wife with your money and your schemes
People rule and a that you fi follow
We and nuh no call me no nigga
Do a good term and you deserve another
Signed musically yours, the general sleepywonder

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

The people live in misery
Govemment a work
But govemment them is a monckery
Respect to the youths
Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Why don't you treat them the way you should

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of Thievery Corporation's song The State of the Union express the disparity between the government and the people. The people live in misery while the government works, but is also seen as a mockery. The lyrics entreat the government to treat the youths with respect, bringing attention to the socio-economic and political challenges that they face. The lyrics also suggest that the government hides certain truths from the people and broadcast lies on the television screen, in an effort to push their own agenda, while condemning the people for not doing enough to improve their lives. The song highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and equal treatment for all.

The lyrics also caution against inciting violence and rebellion, suggesting that the government's neglect and mistreatment may push the people to extreme measures, such as burning buildings and firing gunshots. The lyrics speak to the power dynamics at play between the government and the people and the contractual relationship between them. Finally, the lyrics challenge the government to do better and to follow the will of the people, rather than pursuing their own interests or agenda. Overall, the song speaks to themes of power struggles, corruption, and social injustice, and calls for greater equity and fairness.

Line by Line Meaning

The people live in misery
The citizens are suffering and unhappy

Govemment a work
The government is functioning

But govemment them is a monckery
The government is acting foolishly and irresponsibly

Respect to the youths
Show admiration to the younger generation

Whether in front and all dem a back a me
Regardless of their location or position relative to me

Why don't you treat them the way you should
Why not show proper treatment to the youth

And I know all the things you hide
I am aware of all your secrets

Even though it's a good disguise
Despite your efforts to conceal your actions

And we see all the things you do
We are aware of all your behavior

And what you do will comeback on you
Negative actions will have repercussions

You think we can't fight what the eyes can't see
You believe we can't overcome what is hidden from view

Because we are blinded by poverty
Our financial situation is preventing us from taking action

It's like the people you want them to rebel
It seems like you want the citizens to rise up in protest

And fire gunshots and burn buildings to hell
And resort to violent methods to express their dissatisfaction

And after that you a go want treat me well
And then you will try to appease us

It's like you have the people under a spell
It's as if you are controlling us with your actions

Talking to the people in a congress
Addressing the public during a governmental meeting

A we vote you in, so you must put out your best
We elected you, so you must fulfill your duties in the best way possible

After all we no in a contest
In the end, we are not in direct competition

It's the state of the union address
This is an address discussing the state of the nation

Broadcasting lies on the television sreen
Spreading deceitful information through media outlets

Trying to get us hooked on your american dream
Attempting to influence us with the ideals of the American Dream

We up on your games if you know wha me mean
We understand your tactics and manipulations

When you cheated on your wife with your money and your schemes
Referencing a specific politician's personal scandal involving infidelity and deception

People rule and a that you fi follow
The people are ultimately in charge, and you must listen to them

We and nuh no call me no nigga
We are not to be called a derogatory term

Do a good term and you deserve another
Perform well in your role and you will be rewarded

Signed musically yours, the general sleepywonder
A sign-off from the artist who created this song

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