Meaning of Hangin’ ’round by David Bowie

David Bowie's song "Hangin' 'round" is a captivating musical masterpiece that delves into various themes and narratives through its intriguing lyrics. At its core, the song explores the idea of encountering individuals from different walks of life and how their actions and behaviors can either resonate or clash with our own personal growth and values.One of the standout lyrics in the song revolves around Harry, a rich young man who becomes a priest. It raises a fascinating theme of the clash between material wealth and spirituality. In this context, the song suggests that Harry's decision to dig up his recently deceased father may symbolize a desperate attempt to reconcile his privileged background with his newfound spirituality. It reflects the struggle of letting go of the tangible comforts of wealth and embracing a more profound spiritual calling.Jeanie, a spoiled young woman who arrogantly believes she knows it all, is another intriguing character in the song. Her actions of smoking mentholated cigarettes and engaging in casual sex in the hall serve as symbols for rebellion and indulgence. Through Jeanie's portrayal, the song explores the theme of societal expectations and conformity. It suggests that Jeanie's rebellious behavior is a result of not fitting into the mold designated by society but, ultimately, fails to align with the experiences and values of the song's narrator.Amidst these characters, the narrator raises the notion of animality and astrological signs. The lyric, "But she was not my kind or even of my sign, the kind of animal that I would be about," introduces a creative theme. It suggests a deeper exploration into the concept of personal identity and compatibility. The narrator acknowledges the differences between individuals and acknowledges that the kind of "animal" (characteristics and values) that he embodies does not align with Jeanie's.Moving on, Kathy's surreal existence in the song offers another remarkable theme to explore. Her painted toes and dentures clamped tightly to her nose evoke a sense of eccentricity and individuality. This theme of embracing one's uniqueness challenges societal norms and expectations. Kathy's character serves as a reminder for listeners to celebrate their own peculiarities, even if they seem unconventional to others.Throughout the song, the narrator encounters these diverse characters, each representing different aspects of society and personal growth. The lyrics, "You're still doing things that I gave up years ago," emphasize the narrator's evolution and the choices they made in their own personal journey. It raises the theme of personal growth and the struggle of moving forward while observing others' stagnation. This theme prompts reflection on the choices we make in our lives and the different paths that people may follow.In the final verse, the outro emphasizes the repetitive nature of hanging around. This repetition serves as a poignant reminder that even though we encounter various people and experiences, we may still find ourselves in similar situations, both physically and emotionally. The song concludes with a sense of acceptance that hanging around is a natural part of life's cycle, filled with different encounters and personal growth.In conclusion, "Hangin' 'round" by David Bowie presents a rich tapestry of themes. This exploration through the lyrics encompasses the clash between material wealth and spirituality, the rebellion against societal norms, the acceptance and celebration of uniqueness, the personal growth and choices we make, and the cyclical nature of life itself. Through its imaginative lyrics and captivating storytelling, the song encourages self-reflection, prompting listeners to contemplate their own encounters and growth within society.