Meaning of Buddha Of Suburbia (feat. Lenny Kravitz) [2021 Remaster] by David Bowie

The David Bowie song "Buddha Of Suburbia" is a captivating and thought-provoking piece that delves into the complexities of suburban life and the search for personal identity in a conformist society. Released in 1993, the song fuses elements of rock, pop, and experimental sounds, resulting in a unique and captivating musical experience. In this blog article, we will explore the various themes and hidden meanings behind the standout lyrics of this remarkable song.The first verse of "Buddha Of Suburbia" sets the stage for the exploration of identity and truth. The line "Living in lies by the railway line" introduces the idea of individuals living in a facade, disguising their true selves to fit into societal norms. It reflects the pressure to conform and the struggle to differentiate between truth and deception. This theme of inauthenticity is further emphasized by the line "Elvis is English and climbs the hills," which speaks to the idolization of popular culture figures and the misplaced desire to emulate their lives.Moving on to the chorus, we encounter the lines "So I'll wait until we're sane, wait until we're blessed and all the same, full of blood, loving life and all it's got to give." These lyrics convey the longing for a sense of sanity and unity within a fragmented world. The repetition of the phrase "wait until" suggests a desire for a collective transformation, a hope for a future where we can all experience life to its fullest. This theme is amplified by the phrase "Englishmen going insane," which highlights the struggle to maintain individuality within the confines of societal expectations, particularly in a suburban setting where conformity often reigns supreme.As we delve into the second verse, we come across the lines "With great expectations, I change all my clothes, mustn't grumble at silver and gold." These lyrics shed light on the pursuit of material possessions as a means of validation and self-expression in a society driven by consumerism. The emphasis on changing clothes and the reference to silver and gold symbolize the constant need to project an image of success and wealth to conform to societal standards. It raises questions about the true nature of happiness and the ways in which we measure personal fulfillment.The outro of the song introduces a new element with the repetition of the phrase "Day after, day after day, day after, Zane, Zane, Zane, Ouvre le chien." Here, the lyrics take on a distinctively abstract and repetitive quality, leaving room for interpretation. "Zane" and "Ouvre le chien" are phrases in French that translate to "Zane" and "Open the dog" respectively. These enigmatic lines suggest a departure from rationality and an embrace of the chaotic and unpredictable side of life. It could allude to the idea of breaking free from societal constraints and embracing one's true self, unapologetically and without reservation.Overall, the song "Buddha Of Suburbia" encapsulates a range of themes intertwined with the overarching concept of identity and conformity. It delves into the struggle to maintain individuality amidst pressures to conform, the quest for authenticity in a world filled with facades, and the longing for unity and sanity. The standout lyrics help develop these themes by exploring the complexities of suburban life and the desire to break free from societal expectations. It prompts listeners to reflect on their own search for identity, challenging them to embrace their true selves and live life to the fullest, regardless of the pressures to conform.