Meaning of Jewel by David Bowie

David Bowie, the legendary icon of music and experimentation, never failed to surprise and captivate his fans with his thought-provoking lyrics and eclectic sounds. One such song that delves into the depths of artistic expression and identity is 'Jewel.' With its enigmatic and poetic verses, Bowie takes us on a journey exploring themes of self-discovery, creativity, and the inherent value of uniqueness.In the enigmatic verses of 'Jewel,' Bowie tackles the overarching theme of artistic expression and its intersection with identity. The song suggests that one's creative output is not merely an expression of the conscious self but rather a reflection of the hidden depths within. It invites listeners to ponder the multifaceted nature of their creative endeavors and urges them to embrace their uniqueness.One standout lyric in 'Jewel' is "I wish you could swim / Like the dolphins, like dolphins can swim." At first glance, this might appear to be a simple metaphorical statement, but upon closer examination, a deeper theme emerges. Bowie uses dolphins, renowned for their grace and agility in the water, to represent the emotional depth and fluidity of artistic expression. By wishing that others could swim like dolphins, Bowie encourages individuals to tap into their submerged emotions and unleash their own creative depths.Another striking line in the song is "The wind blows with a different kind of fury / And the seeds are glinting, like a stray dog in a diamond mine." Here, Bowie highlights the notion of finding beauty and value in unexpected places. The wind, often associated with change and transformation, takes on a "different kind of fury." This could symbolize both the challenges and opportunities that arise during the creative process. The image of seeds glinting like a stray dog in a diamond mine is particularly evocative. It suggests that even in seemingly desolate or forgotten places, hidden treasures can be found. This lyric speaks to the importance of embracing unconventional ideas and perspectives in the pursuit of artistic expression.Continuing with the exploration of creativity, Bowie sings, "Sons of dust, sons of dust / Will you bite the hand that feeds you, too?" This lyric delves into the intricate relationship between artists and their audience. By referencing "sons of dust," Bowie alludes to the transient nature of our existence and the universal struggle for artistic recognition. He asks whether artists, driven by their passion and desire for true expression, will compromise their art for the sake of commercial success. This theme is deeply tied to the overarching idea of staying true to one's artistic vision and not succumbing to external pressures.In "Jewel," Bowie masterfully weaves together unexpected and imaginative themes that all coalesce around the central theme of artistic expression and identity. Through the metaphor of dolphins, he emphasizes the need to tap into our hidden depths to create truly unique works. The image of seeds glinting in a diamond mine reminds us to seek treasure in unexpected places, fostering a sense of curiosity and embracing diversity in our creative process. Finally, Bowie challenges artists to remain true to themselves, even in the face of societal pressures, thus encouraging a genuine and authentic artistic journey.Overall, "Jewel" is a profound song that invites listeners to reflect on the nature of their creative expression and the intrinsic value of embracing their unique identities. Bowie's enigmatic lyrics encourage us to dive deep into the creative depths, find beauty in unexpected places, and stay resolute in our artistic pursuits. It serves as a reminder that we are all jewels, waiting to be discovered and appreciated for our individual brilliance.