Big Boss Man
Bob Dylan / Grateful Dead Lyrics
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Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
You got me working boss man, a workin' around the clock,
I want a little drink of whiskey, you sure won't let me stop.
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
I'm gonna get me a boss man, one gonna treat me right,
I work hard in the daytime, sure get drunk at night.
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
The lyrics to Bob Dylan and Grateful Dead's "Big Boss Man" reveal a frustrated worker's plea for acknowledgment and fair treatment from his boss. The repetition of the line "Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?" emphasizes the worker's sense of insignificance and lack of recognition. The subsequent line, "You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all," is a biting criticism of the boss's inflated sense of power and his failure to see the value in his workers.
The worker's complaint is further elaborated upon as he describes the long hours and lack of respite he experiences under his boss's rule. The sense of entrapment and powerlessness is palpable as he longs for a momentary escape with a drink of whiskey. His repetition of the phrase "Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?" underscores that his search for basic respect and humane treatment continues.
The final lines reveal the worker's desire to find a boss who will treat him with dignity and fairness, highlighting the universal desire for good working conditions, regardless of one's social status or occupation.
Line by Line Meaning
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
The singer is trying to get the attention of their boss, asking if they can be heard.
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
The singer repeats their request for the boss's attention.
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
The boss is not as powerful as they seem, their height being the only thing that sets them apart.
You got me working boss man, a workin' around the clock,
The artist is overworked, constantly toiling for their boss.
I want a little drink of whiskey, you sure won't let me stop.
The artist desires a break, but the boss doesn't allow them to rest.
Big boss man, can't you hear me when I call?
The singer reiterates their plea to be heard by their boss.
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
The singer emphasizes that the boss's size and stature doesn't make them invincible.
I'm gonna get me a boss man, one gonna treat me right,
The artist plans to find a better boss, one who treats them with fairness and respect.
I work hard in the daytime, sure get drunk at night.
The artist works hard during the day and uses alcohol as a release from their oppressive work environment.
You ain't so big, you just tall, that's just about all.
The boss's size doesn't mean anything if they are not a good leader or treat their employees well.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Dixon Luther, Al Smith
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind