Meaning of Law (earthlings On Fire) by David Bowie

The overall theme of David Bowie's song "Law (Earthlings on Fire)" is the desire for certainty in a chaotic and unpredictable world. Throughout the song, Bowie expresses a longing for something more than mere knowledge, emphasizing the need for absolute certainty in order to find stability and security.One of the standout lyrics in this song is the recurring refrain, "I don't want knowledge, I want certainty." Here, Bowie conveys the idea that knowledge alone is not enough to quell our fears and uncertainties. He recognizes that while knowledge may provide us with information, it does not provide the guarantee or assurance that we often seek in life. This lyric speaks to the human desire for concrete answers and absolute truths, as we often struggle with ambiguity and the unknown.Another important lyric in the song is found in the second verse, as Bowie sings, "In a house a man drops dead, as he hits the floor he sighs, 'What a morning'." This poignant portrayal of a sudden death juxtaposed with the casual remark highlights the unpredictability of life. It raises the theme of the fragility of existence and the abruptness with which our lives can change. Bowie suggests that even in the face of such unexpected events, our desire for certainty persists, perhaps even intensifies.A recurring motif in the song is the reference to the sound of the ground. Bowie sings, "With the sound, with the sound, with the sound of the ground." This can be interpreted as a metaphorical representation of the unstable and transient nature of our reality. The sound of the ground represents the ever-shifting foundations upon which we build our lives, constantly reminding us of the uncertainty that surrounds us.Furthermore, Bowie's repetition of the phrase "Earthlings on fire" serves as a chilling reminder of the chaotic world in which we live. This evocative imagery can be seen as a metaphor for the turmoil and destruction caused by our inability to find the certainty we crave. It suggests that without the anchor of certainty, we are left vulnerable and susceptible to being consumed by the flames of uncertainty.In essence, "Law (Earthlings on Fire)" delves into the profound human longing for certainty amidst a world filled with chaos and ambiguity. Bowie's exploration of this theme through imagery, metaphor, and poignant lyrics allows listeners to reflect on their own desires and fears. The unexpected themes touched upon in this song, such as the fragility of existence and the ever-shifting nature of reality, contribute to a complex and multi-layered exploration of the overarching theme of certainty. Ultimately, Bowie's lyrical genius shines through as he invites us to ponder the innate human drive for certainty and the consequences of its absence.Sources:David Bowie - Law (Earthlings on Fire) (2016)https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/32820292/David+Bowie/Law+%28Earthlings+on+Fire%29