Meaning of Everyone Says ‘hi’ by David Bowie

In David Bowie's hauntingly beautiful song "Everyone Says 'hi'", listeners are transported into a world of melancholy and longing. The overall theme of the song revolves around the complex emotions we experience when someone we love or care about leaves our lives. Through the exploration of various lyrical themes, Bowie delves into the bittersweet nature of farewells, the unspoken connections we maintain with those who have departed, and the hope for reconnection.One standout lyric that encapsulates the song's theme is when Bowie sings, "Said you took a picture, they said you've moved away". This line creates a sense of nostalgia and longing for what once was. It explores the idea that memories, like photographs, capture specific moments in time, allowing us to hold onto a tangible piece of the past. The lyric also addresses the absence of a loved one, with the mention of them moving away. This evokes feelings of loss and the struggle to cope with their absence.Another poignant lyric that adds depth to the song's themes is, "Hope the way the ... and it's not too harsh". Here, Bowie hints at a strained relationship or unresolved issues with the departed person. It explores the complexities of human connection and the potential for misunderstandings or miscommunications. This lyric alludes to the desire for forgiveness and reconciliation, further emphasizing the longing for a renewed connection.Furthermore, the chorus, "Everyone says hi, everyone says hi, don't stay in the sad place where they don't care how you are", shines a light on the loneliness experienced when someone leaves. It speaks to the universal human need for empathy and understanding. This lyric suggests that even when physically separated, we still carry a sense of connection with those we love, and their well-being remains important to us. It serves as a reminder to reach out to those who have left and to let them know they are missed and remembered.Building upon these lyrics, an unexpected and imaginative theme that emerges from the song is the idea of parallel universes. Bowie's lyrics allow us to imagine a reality where the departed person still exists, where they sail on a big ship or where they remain next door or upstairs. This theme explores the concept that although physically separate, there is a part of them that continues to exist within our hearts and minds. It invites us to consider the possibility of alternate dimensions where the connection we once had can be reignited.Another imaginative theme that emerges from the song is the transformative power of memory. Bowie's lyrics highlight the significance of a photograph, a simple frame that encapsulates a lifetime of experiences and emotions. This theme explores the idea that memories have the ability to transport us to different times and places, offering solace and comfort when we miss someone deeply. It suggests that through memories, we can keep the essence of a person alive and continually cherish their presence, even when they are physically absent.In conclusion, David Bowie's "Everyone Says 'hi'" is a deeply moving song that engages listeners with its exploration of themes such as farewells, unspoken connections, and the hope for reconnection. Through standout lyrics and imaginative themes, the song conveys the complex emotions associated with the departure of a loved one. It reminds us of the power of memories, the significance of human connection, and the longing for reconciliation and renewal. Bowie's artistry shines through as he masterfully captures the universal experience of longing for loved ones who have moved away while igniting our imagination with the possibility of parallel universes and the transformative power of memory.