Meaning of M.o.r. by David Bowie

In the enigmatic world of David Bowie, no song is ever as simple as it initially appears. One such example is the lesser-known track "M.o.r." In this mysterious tune, Bowie delves into the complexities of identity, conformity, and the eternal search for meaning in an ever-changing world. The song's title itself is a clever play on words, standing for "Middle of the Road," a term used to describe something ordinary and lacking in originality. However, beneath the seemingly straightforward lyrics lies a profound exploration of various themes that intertwine, forming a captivating narrative.The opening verse sets the stage for the song's overarching theme: the struggle to escape the monotonous routine of life. Bowie sings about the automatic response to the pressures of society, unloading the weight that bears upon him. Here, the theme of rebellion against conformity emerges, as Bowie yearns to break free from the middle-of-the-road existence that so many succumb to. It symbolizes a desire to explore the uncharted territories of individuality and self-expression.One standout lyric that amplifies this theme comes in the chorus, as Bowie declares, "Here comes a low, here comes a high, here comes everything." Through these lines, he presents the idea of embracing the highs and lows of life, both the mundane and the extraordinary. The unexpected theme that emerges from this lyric is the celebration of the human experience in all its aspects. Bowie invites us to embrace the full spectrum of emotions and experiences, recognizing that even the most ordinary moments can hold extraordinary significance.Another set of lyrics that carries weight in the song is found in the second verse. Bowie sings, "Here comes tomorrow, one, two, three episodes." This refers to the constant flux and unpredictability of life. Each day brings new possibilities and challenges, capturing the essence of the human condition. The unexpected theme that surfaces from these lines is the importance of embracing change and seeing it as an opportunity for growth. Bowie implores us to welcome the uncertainty of the future and view it as an unfolding story, full of twists and turns that can shape our identity and path.Throughout the song, Bowie continuously refers to sticking together, both lyrically and musically. This unity represents the power of human connection and the importance of shared experiences. However, within this theme lies an unexpected exploration of the notion of identity within collective consciousness. Bowie suggests that when we stick together, we can lose sight of our individuality, falling into the middle of the road. The unexpected theme here is the delicate balance between individuality and collective unity. Bowie urges us to find a middle ground where we can celebrate our uniqueness while fostering a sense of community.A final standout lyric that warrants discussion is in the bridge of the song: "It's automatic, I need to unload, under the pressure, gone middle of the road." In these lines, Bowie highlights the struggle between external expectations and internal desires. The pressure to conform can often lead to a loss of individual identity. The unexpected theme that emerges here is the craving for authenticity and the exploration of self-understanding.In conclusion, "M.o.r." by David Bowie is a multi-layered song that deceives listeners with its seemingly straightforward title and lyrics. Beneath the surface, Bowie crafts an intricate web of themes that explore rebellion against conformity, the celebration of the human experience, embracing change, finding a balance between individuality and unity, and the pursuit of authenticity. This introspective journey invites listeners to reflect on their own lives and consider the profound complexity of the world we inhabit. Bowie reminds us that even within the most ordinary moments, there is extraordinary beauty to be found. So, let's embrace the highs and lows, welcome the unknown, and strive to live an authentic life, never settling for anything less than extraordinary.