Meaning of Holy Holy (mono) [2015 Remaster] by David Bowie

David Bowie was no stranger to exploring complex themes and experimenting with various musical styles. And his song "Holy Holy" is no exception. Released in 2015 as part of a remastered edition, this track delves into the human desire for connection, the struggle between good and evil, and the bittersweet realization that sometimes we need to let go.At its core, "Holy Holy" is an exploration of the complexities of relationships. Throughout the song, Bowie grapples with the idea of finding solace and companionship while also longing for personal freedom. The listener is taken on a journey through conflicting emotions, creating an intriguing narrative that is open to interpretation.One standout lyric that showcases this theme is "Slowly, we get good and holy, helping one another, just a righteous brother." Here, Bowie highlights the transformative power of connection and the potential for personal growth that can be found in relationships. The idea of becoming "good and holy" suggests that through the support of others, we can become better versions of ourselves. There is a sense of communal wellbeing, where being a "righteous brother" signifies the mutual exchange of support and compassion.Contrasting this sense of holiness and righteousness, Bowie adds an element of darkness with the lyric "Nighttime, get me back in the nighttime, I don't want to be an angel, just a little bit evil." This line introduces a duality within the narrator's desires. While he craves connection and support, there is also a rebellious side longing for a hint of wickedness and personal freedom. It becomes clear that the narrator yearns for a balance between being a "righteous brother" and embracing their own individuality.The chorus plays a pivotal role in conveying the overarching theme of the song. "Holy, holy, hold on to anyone, hold on to anyone, but just let me be," Bowie sings. Here, he presents the internal struggle of the narrator, torn between the desire for companionship and a need for personal space. The repetition of the phrase "hold on to anyone" emphasizes the narrator's longing for human connection, while the plea to "just let me be" underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of self amid relationships.To further deepen the song's themes, Bowie inserts a bridge that repeats the first verse. This repetition reinforces the idea of an ongoing internal struggle, as the lyrics "Listen, Lady, let me lie low, lie low with you, to be a lie-high-high-high" reiterate the complex emotions and desire for connection while simultaneously longing for personal freedom.As the song reaches its conclusion, the outro brings a sense of ambiguity, leaving room for individual interpretation. The repeated phrase "la-la-li-li" adds a dreamlike quality, giving listeners the freedom to fill in their own emotions and experiences. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder that relationships and personal identity are a delicate balance, requiring us to find our own unique path.In "Holy Holy," David Bowie masterfully explores the intricate dance between connection and individuality. Through poignant lyrics and a blend of contrasting themes, he invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences with relationships and the complex emotions that come with them. This song serves as a reminder that while seeking connection is natural and crucial for personal growth, it's equally important to maintain a sense of self and embrace our own shades of light and darkness.