WORKING MAN
Penicillin Baby Lyrics

The lyrics to Penicillin Baby's song Working Man speak to the struggles and frustrations of the modern, working-class individual. The singer begins by describing himself as a "higher gun," or someone who has worked hard to earn a respectable position in their job. However, despite this effort, they still spend all their time "digging in the sun," or performing relentless physical labor. The singer goes on to explain that they maintain their appearance (i.e., keeping their hair in place and shaving their face) in order to conform to workplace standards.

The chorus of the song emphasizes the idea that the singer is always on the clock, literally and figuratively. They are physically and mentally drained, and feel as though their existence is unnoticed by those in power. They suggest that they were once seen as an individual, but were subsequently taught to "stay in line" and conform to expectations. The singer acknowledges that their own lack of productivity contributes to this feeling of disillusionment.

Overall, Working Man is a commentary on the struggles faced by many members of the modern workforce. It highlights the monotony and physical toll of labor-intensive jobs, as well as the emotional and psychological toll of feeling unnoticed and expendable.