Taxman - Remastered 2009

The overall theme of "Taxman" revolves around discontent with taxation and government. Written by George Harrison, it captures the frustration many feel about how much the taxman takes from their earnings. It's not just about money; it’s a commentary on authority and the imbalance of power. Harrison uses humor and sarcasm to express his feelings, making the serious topic more relatable and engaging.

Verse 1

Let me tell you how it will be
There's one for you, nineteen for me
'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

In this opening verse, Harrison sets the tone by showing the disparity in how taxes are distributed. The line “there's one for you, nineteen for me” highlights how the taxman takes much more than what people keep. It’s a stark statement that paints the tax system as unfair and greedy, immediately drawing the listener into his frustration.

Chorus

Should five per cent appear too small?
Be thankful I don't take it all
'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

The chorus emphasizes the taxman’s control over people's finances. By suggesting that even a small percentage is too much, Harrison cleverly points out the absurdity of being grateful for what little is left. It’s a biting commentary on how tax burdens can feel overwhelming, making it clear that the taxman holds all the power, leaving citizens feeling helpless.

Verse 2

(If you drive a car, car)
I'll tax the street
(If you try to sit, sit)
I'll tax your seat

Here, Harrison continues with the theme of excessive taxation. He lists various everyday activities that could be taxed, illustrating how the taxman seems to invade every aspect of life. This verse effectively shows how relentless taxation can feel, making it impossible to escape from its reach.

Chorus

'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

This repeated chorus reinforces the idea that the taxman is always present, looming over everyone's lives. It adds to the feeling of constant surveillance and control, emphasizing that there’s no way to avoid him. This repetition makes the message stick, driving home the annoyance of being taxed on everything.

Verse 3

(If you get too cold, cold)
I'll tax the heat
(If you take a walk, walk)
I'll tax your feet

In this verse, Harrison uses humor to highlight how absurd taxation can be. Taxing something as basic as heat or walking feels ridiculous. It reflects a society where everything is commodified, and it emphasizes the frustration of being taxed for simply existing.

Chorus

'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

Once again, the repetition of the chorus emphasizes the taxman’s grip on life. The more it’s repeated, the more it feels like an inescapable reality. It drives home the point that the taxman is always present, overshadowing personal freedoms.

Verse 4

Don't ask me what I want it for
(Ha, ha, Mr. Wilson)
If you don't want to pay some more
(Ha, ha, Mr. Heath)

This verse introduces a clever twist with direct addresses to politicians, Mr. Wilson and Mr. Heath. Harrison mocks them, suggesting they don’t care about the average person’s burden. It’s a sharp jab at those in power, highlighting the disconnect between government officials and the citizens they tax.

Chorus

'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman

The repeated chorus brings back the central theme, reminding us that the frustration of taxation is a constant reality. It acts as a mantra, reinforcing the anger and helplessness people feel toward the system.

Bridge

Now my advice for those who die
(Taxman!)
Declare the pennies on your eyes
(Taxman!)

In the bridge, Harrison delivers a darkly humorous piece of advice about death and taxes. The line about declaring pennies on the eyes is a clever metaphor for how even in death, the taxman is still there. It showcases the relentless nature of taxes, suggesting that they never truly go away.

Outro

'Cause I'm the taxman
Yeah, I'm the taxman
And you're working for no one but me (taxman!)

The outro wraps up the song with a strong reminder of the taxman’s dominance. The line “you’re working for no one but me” is a poignant statement on how hard work can feel futile when so much goes to taxes. It leaves listeners with a lingering sense of frustration and resignation.

Closing Thoughts

"Taxman" is a clever and catchy critique of the tax system. With its humor and sharp lyrics, it makes a serious topic feel relatable. Harrison captures a universal frustration, making the song not just about taxes, but about the feeling of being overwhelmed by those in power. It’s a timeless piece that still resonates today.