Meaning of Dancing Out In Space by David Bowie

David Bowie was known for his eclectic and thought-provoking music, and one of his standout songs titled "Dancing Out In Space" is no exception. On the surface, this track seems to revolve around the act of dancing and its connection to religion. However, upon closer examination, the lyrics unveil a world of unexpected and imaginative themes that all tie back to the overall theme of the song, which is exploring personal freedom and liberation.One standout lyric in "Dancing Out In Space" is "Cutting through the water, hands upon the ghost, to the city of solid iron, through the kingdom of the boats." This lyric transports us to a world where dancing itself becomes a metaphorical journey. The water symbolizes the fluidity of movement, while the ghost represents the intangible presence of one's desire to break free from societal constraints. The city of solid iron represents the rigidity of the world, contrasting with the idea of dancing and liberation. Lastly, the kingdom of the boats represents a realm where individual freedom and exploration can be achieved.Another intriguing lyric is "Something like religion, dancing face to face, something like a drowning, dancing out in space." Here, Bowie astutely juxtaposes two seemingly opposing concepts: religion and drowning. When taken metaphorically, religion can be seen as a symbol of devotion and faith. Dancing face to face then represents a personal connection, perhaps with oneself or others. On the other hand, drowning signifies the overwhelming sensation that can result from complete immersion in self-expression. Dancing out in space adds another layer to this, as it implies a sense of weightless freedom and liberation. Together, these lyrics suggest that dancing can offer a spiritual experience, a form of worship that leads to a blissful immersion in oneself and the world.Moving on, Bowie incorporates the poetic line "Silent as Georges Rodenbach, mist and silhouette, girl, you move like water." Georges Rodenbach was a Belgian Symbolist poet known for his atmospheric and melancholic works. By alluding to Rodenbach's silence, Bowie draws attention to the ethereal and enigmatic nature of the girl in question. She moves like water, symbolizing her fluidity and adaptability. This lyric emphasizes the transformative power of dance, as the girl effortlessly glides through life, leaving a mesmerizing impression.Lastly, the line "You've got stars upon your head, you've got my name and number, you've got to take the floor" provides further insight into the song's themes. The stars upon one's head suggest a celestial presence that signifies uniqueness and significance. Having someone's name and number implies intimacy and personal connection. Taking the floor encourages individuals to fully embrace their desires and pursue personal liberation. This section emphasizes the importance of embracing one's individuality and taking control of one's destiny.Overall, "Dancing Out In Space" by David Bowie explores the themes of personal freedom and liberation through the act of dancing. The lyrics delve into various unexpected and imaginative themes, fostering connections between religion, drowning, atmospheric poetry, and personal connections. By intertwining these seemingly disparate concepts, Bowie encourages his listeners to embrace their unique selves and find liberation through self-expression. So put on your dancing shoes and step onto the floor because in the realm of freedom and space, the only limit is your imagination.