Semantron 20 Summer 2020

UK punk and politics 1975 – 84

A greater understanding of Crass’ overall political message might be grasped by looking at the lyrics of the song ‘Big A Little A’ released in 1982. 13 The song ’ s structure has three main sections. In each section, Steve Ignorant takes on the character of a different figure of despised authority – God, the Queen and the PrimeMinister. These three figures represent the epitome of the status quo, and through satire and parody, Steve Ignorant and Crass illustrate what is problematic about the establishment.

Lyrical Stanzas

‘Big A Little A’ by Crass (1982)

God

Hello, hello, hello, this is the Lord God, can you hear… We'll blind you with morality, you'd best abandon any hope, We're telling you you'd better pray cos you were born in sin Right from the start we'll build a cell and then we'll lock you in

Hello, hello, hello, now here's a message from your queen As figurehead of the status quo I set the social scene I'mmost concerned about my people, I want to give them peace So I'mmaking sure they stay in line with my army and police My prisons and my mental homes have ever open doors For those amongst my subjects who dare to ask for more Unruliness and disrespect are things I can't allow So I'll see the peasants grovel if they refuse to bow Introducing the Prime Sinister... she'll do it with an army Who at times of threatened crisis are certain to be there Guarding national heritage no matter what or where Palaces for kings and queens, mansions for the rich Protection for the wealthy, defence of privilege They've learnt the ropes In Ireland, engaged in civil war Fighting for the ruling classes in their battle against the poor If you don't like the rules they make, refuse to play their game If you don't want to be a number, don't give them your name If you don't want to be caught out, refuse to hear their question Silence is a virtue, use it for your own protection They'll try to make you play their game, refuse to show your face If you don't want to be beaten down, refuse to join their race Be exactly who you want to be, do what you want to do I am he and she is she but you're the only you.

The Queen

The Prime Minister

The Final Stanza

13 Crass. Big A Little A , Crass Records, August 1982

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