I try to get my foot on the ladder

try climbing up the greasy pole

one step forward, ten steps backwards

retrograde rock 'n' roll



It's so hard living on the breadline

harder still if you're stuck below

lose your mind in the daily grind

oh what a way to go



[Chorus]

Someone else has all our money

someone else is cashing in

honesty's no policy

for hangers on and middle men



So keep your mouth shut and just listen

everybody's standing still

you telephone your words of wisdom

but words won't pay my bills



You got where you are because of me

I'll get there inspite of you

'though I have to work ten times harder

to be told I'm half as good