(We’re Not) The Jet Set

Song Meaning

The lyrics open with classic romantic imagery: falling in love by a fountain in Rome, a cafe in Athens, April in Paris. But this dreamy scene quickly grounds itself in a distinctly American reality. The narrator reveals these grand European locales are actually their humble, domestic namesakes: "Rome, Georgia, Athens, Texas and Paris, Tennessee." This playful geographical bait-and-switch sets the stage for the central theme: a proud rejection of high-society glamour. The repeated refrain, "No, we're not the jet set / We're the old Chevro-let set," establishes a clear identity. It's a declaration that their world isn't about luxury travel or famous figures like "Onassis." The lyrics lean into humorous, specific juxtapositions to paint this picture. Instead of "Riviera" in "Festus, Missour-uh," or "steak and martinis," they have "draft beer with weenies." Even their cultural touchstones are different: "Bach and Tchaikovsky" are traded for "Haggard and Husky," later updated to "Prine and DeMent set," firmly planting their musical roots in country and folk. What makes these lyrics so effective is their unwavering celebration of authentic, unpretentious love. Each contrast, from geography to cuisine to music, reinforces a deep contentment with their shared life. The recurring question, "But ain't we got love," isn't a plea, but a confident assertion, suggesting that genuine affection far outweighs any material trappings or societal expectations.