Meaning of Loving The Alien by David Bowie

David Bowie's song "Loving The Alien" is a profound exploration of religion, faith, and the complexities of human belief systems. While the title may suggest a focus on extraterrestrial beings, the song goes much deeper, delving into the contradictions, struggles, and hypocrisies prevalent in religious societies.One standout lyric that exemplifies this theme is, "But if you pray, all your sins are hooked upon the sky." Here, Bowie challenges the notion that prayer alone can absolve one of their wrongdoings. The lyric suggests that religious individuals often rely on prayer as a way to evade personal responsibility and accountability for their actions. It highlights the tendency for some individuals to use faith as a shield, believing that their devotion will conveniently erase their sins.Another striking line is, "Prayers they hide the saddest view, believing the strangest things, loving the alien." This lyric examines the way religion can lead people to adopt and embrace irrational beliefs. It questions the blind acceptance of ideas without evidence or logic, emphasizing the "strangeness" in the human capacity to believe in the extraordinary. Bowie suggests that these beliefs are a form of escapism, allowing individuals to find solace in the unconventional and extraordinary, ultimately leading to a love for the alien.The song further explores the historical context of religion through the lyrics, "The Templars and the Saracens, they're traveling in the holy land" and "Palestine a modern problem." These lines highlight the ongoing conflicts between different religious factions, particularly in the historically significant region of Palestine. Bowie draws attention to the violence and tension that arise when religious differences are used as a basis for conflict. The importance of land and wealth is also highlighted, reflecting the underlying political motivations that often accompany religious disputes.In addition to religious themes, the song offers a commentary on human nature. Bowie suggests that humans have a propensity to "believe the strangest things," illustrating the peculiarities of the human mind and our ability to create belief systems around extraordinary ideas. He explores the dichotomy between faith and reason, challenging us to question the narratives we accept and the behaviors we justify based on our beliefs.Overall, "Loving The Alien" presents a thought-provoking examination of the complexities of religion and human belief systems. Bowie skillfully weaves together themes of blind devotion, irrationality, historical conflicts, and the human inclination to embrace the extraordinary. Through insightful lyrics, he encourages listeners to critically examine their beliefs, shedding light on the contradictions and challenges inherent in our religious and societal structures.