Meaning of Hideaway by David Bowie

In David Bowie's song "Hideaway," the overall theme revolves around the desire for escape, finding solace in a place untouched by the corrupted world. The lyrics take us on a journey to a town in North West Mexico, a hidden gem where the sun is gold and life flourishes. But beyond the surface level, there are multiple standout lyrics in the song that delve deeper into unexpected and imaginative themes, all ultimately tying back to the longing for a hideaway.In the chorus, Bowie repeatedly sings, "Hideaway, hideaway truly." This simple yet powerful phrase emphasizes the need for a genuine hideaway, a place where one can truly be themselves. On one level, it could represent a longing for authenticity in a world dominated by facades and pretense. The hideaway becomes a metaphor for a space where societal expectations and external pressures are stripped away, revealing one's true identity and allowing them to exist freely.The opening verse, "I need to touch a live unbeaten earth, So that's where I'm going," evokes imagery of a pure and untouched environment. It speaks to the human instinct to reconnect with nature and escape the concrete jungle of modern society. This lyric symbolizes the longing for a hideaway that grants solace and a sense of belonging. It highlights the importance of finding solace in nature as a means to heal and rejuvenate oneself.Bowie's mention of his country getting "raped by big industry" in the second verse brings forth a poignant theme of environmental destruction. This raises awareness about how human actions have tarnished the natural beauty of the world. The hideaway then becomes a representation of the desire to preserve and protect these pristine pockets of nature, escaping the harsh reality of our exploitative relationship with the environment.The line, "They say 'so what' I say 'so this,'" expresses defiance against the indifference and apathy prevalent in society. In this context, the hideaway can be seen as a statement against complacency and ignorance. It represents the need to resist societal norms and expectations, advocating for active engagement with the world and taking a stand against injustices.In the final verse, the mention of children's voices playing in a yard introduces themes of innocence and purity. The hideaway becomes a space where the purity of childhood is preserved, untouched by the harsh realities of the world. It suggests the longing for a simpler time, a return to an unburdened state of being. This theme emphasizes the universal human desire to preserve innocence and protect the vulnerable aspects of our humanity, even amidst the chaos and corruption that may surround us.In conclusion, "Hideaway" by David Bowie dives deep into the longing for escape, exploring various themes such as authenticity, the healing power of nature, environmental destruction, defiance, and the preservation of innocence. Through unexpected and imaginative imagery, Bowie captivates listeners with his exploration of these themes, all while maintaining the overarching theme of finding solace in a hidden refuge. The song reminds us of our innate need for a hideaway, a genuine space where we can thrive and be true to ourselves, even in a world that may sometimes feel overwhelming.