1 definition by Renno
US Slang for workers who build steel framed skyscraper buildings. This work was often undertaken by Native Americans of the Mohawk or Iroqui tribes. Mythology has it that they have no natural fear of height, although being prepared to undertake dangerous work at low pay may well be the major factor. The 'Steel Monkey' was immortalised in a song by the British Folk Rock band 'Jethro Tull' on the Album 'Crest of a Knave'
"As the moon slips up, and the sun sets down,
Im a highrise jockey, and Im heaven-bound.
Do the workboot shuffle, loose brains from brawn.
Im a monkey puzzle and the lid is on.
Can you guess my name? Can you guess my trade?
Im going to catch you anyway.
You might be right. Ill give you guesses three.
Feel me climbing up your knee.
Guess what I am. I'm a steel monkey"
Extract from 'Steel Monkey' by Jethro Tull, Lyrics by Ian Anderson
Im a highrise jockey, and Im heaven-bound.
Do the workboot shuffle, loose brains from brawn.
Im a monkey puzzle and the lid is on.
Can you guess my name? Can you guess my trade?
Im going to catch you anyway.
You might be right. Ill give you guesses three.
Feel me climbing up your knee.
Guess what I am. I'm a steel monkey"
Extract from 'Steel Monkey' by Jethro Tull, Lyrics by Ian Anderson
by Renno November 20, 2007