Artists
Musicians featured in this piece are:
Ian Anderson – vocals, flute
Martin Barre – guitar
John Evan – piano, organ
Glenn Cornick – bass
Clive Bunker – drums
Written by Ian Anderson. Produced by Ian Anderson, with Terry Ellis credited on cover design, engineered by Robin Black, recorded 1970. Released as the closing track on Benefit (Island Records, April 1970).
“Sossity; You’re a Woman” closes out Benefit, an album Ian Anderson has described as reflecting the frustrations and pressures of a year spent almost constantly on tour. It’s notable as the last Jethro Tull studio album to feature original bassist Glenn Cornick, who departed shortly after its release.
Jethro Tull – Sossity;You’re A Woman Lyrics
Hello you straight-laced lady,
dressed in white but your shoes aren’t clean.
Painted them up with polish
in the hope we can’t see where you’ve been.
The smiling face that you’ve worn
to greet me rising at morning —
sent me out to work for my score.
Please me and say what it’s for.
Give me the straight-laced promise
and not the pathetic lie.
Tie me down with your ribbons
and sulk when I ask you why.
Your Sunday paper voice cries
demanding truths I deny.
The bitter-sweet kiss you pretended
is offered, our affair mended.
Sossity: You’re a woman.
Society: You’re a woman.
All of the tears you’re wasting
are for yourself and not for me.
It’s sad to know you’re aging
Sadder still to admit I’m free.
Your immature physical toy has grown,
too young to enjoy at last your straight-laced agreement:
woman, you were too old for me.
Sossity: You’re a woman.
Society: You’re a woman.
To listen to other songs from the Teleskop 12 program and the full program, click here.