Lyrics Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott – State Vs Jeeves

You’re on benefits
We’re all providing for you
From the streets that we sweep, to the lights whilst you sleep
Is there anything else we can do?

You’re on welfare
And welfare is part of your life
It’s the abuse we forget, to the tax breaks you get
For yourself, your children and wife

Chorus:
And one thing you know from your head to your toe
The confusion that this life achieves
Get yourself mad, don’t get even
‘Cause it’s always been State vs. Jeeves

You’re in poverty
Poverty is more than a wage
It’s the team you support, it’s the records you bought
It’s the news that you read on your page

We’re all claimants
Claiming a place on this earth
From the park you were pushed, to the midwife who hushed
The scream on the day of your birth

Chorus

We’re on scratch cards
Scratching like chickens through dust
Pecking our way through the shit and the hay
And the feeling it’s this life or bust

It’s that hoodie you wear and that look of despair
As the chambermaid catches the thieves
It’s that hate of the state when you’re having your plate
Polished and refilled by Jeeves

Chorus

Oh, state vs. Jeeves
State vs. Jeeves
Oh, state vs. Jeeves…

One thing you know
Head to your toes
State vs. Jeeves…