Meaning of Future Legend by David Bowie

The David Bowie song 'Future Legend' is a cryptic and thought-provoking piece that sets the stage for the dystopian world which is explored throughout the album "Diamond Dogs." At first glance, the song appears to be a surreal and fragmented description of a post-apocalyptic society, but upon delving deeper, we uncover a plethora of themes that fuel Bowie's imaginative narrative.One standout lyric that draws our attention is "No more big wheels." This seemingly insignificant line serves as a commentary on the collapse of capitalism and the end of excess and opulence. In this dystopian future, the extravagant and lavish lifestyle represented by "big wheels" is no longer sustainable or relevant. Bowie highlights the consequences of unchecked consumerism, emphasizing the cycle of decay and decay that society falls into.Another striking line is "Fleas the size of rats sucked on rats the size of cats." This grotesque image suggests a skewed hierarchy within this desolate world. It symbolizes the power shifts and the disregard for life that have taken place. The once-powerful now find themselves at the mercy of those they once oppressed. Bowie's choice of vivid and unsettling imagery urges us to question the consequences of our actions and to examine the potential consequences of exploiting and mistreating others."Coveting the highest of the sterile skyscrapers" presents an intriguing theme centered around the desolation and isolation of individuals. The sterile skyscrapers symbolize the towering structures of power and ambition that humans have constructed. However, in this future world, they have become devoid of life and connection. The obsession with reaching the top becomes meaningless as society crumbles around them. Bowie prompts us to reflect on the consequences of valuing material success over human connection and empathy."Like packs of dogs assaulting the glass fronts of Love-Me Avenue" introduces a theme of desperation and longing for belonging. The image of humans reduced to behaving like wild animals emphasizes the loss of civility and the erosion of compassion. The glass fronts of Love-Me Avenue represent a false illusion of happiness and fulfillment, something that people cling to in their search for purpose. Bowie subtly critiques the superficiality and societal constructs that drive individuals to abandon their humanity.The lyric "Ripping and rewrapping mink and shiny silver fox, now legwarmers" invites us to explore themes of reinvention and adaptation. In this grim setting, even the remnants of opulence have been repurposed. Bowie challenges the notion of value and encourages us to reconsider our attachment to material possessions. It suggests that in times of adversity, humans can find inventive ways to survive and thrive by embracing change and reevaluating their priorities.Lastly, the repeated phrase "Any day now, the year of the Diamond Dogs" paints a picture of a looming transformation or turning point. Bowie hints at the possibility of hope or the potential for a shift in the narrative. The year of the Diamond Dogs represents a time of reinvention and rebirth. It serves as a reminder that even in the bleakest of circumstances, there is always the chance for redemption and new beginnings.Through these standout lyrics and their associated themes, Bowie constructs a multifaceted exploration of a bleak future. The overall theme of the song revolves around the consequences of unchecked consumerism, power dynamics, the loss of humanity, reinvention, and the possibility of hope. 'Future Legend' serves as a compelling entry point into Bowie's imaginative world, teasing listeners with fragments of a narrative that entices them to uncover the depths of his storytelling.