Meaning of Oh! You Pretty Things (bowpromo Mix) [2022 Remaster] by David Bowie

The David Bowie song titled 'Oh! You Pretty Things' is a highly thought-provoking and imaginative piece that explores various themes, ultimately leading us to question the future of humanity and our place in the world. Through its evocative lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of a world undergoing significant changes, while simultaneously highlighting the potential for both awe-inspiring and unsettling developments.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "A crack in the sky and a hand reaching down to me." This line serves as a powerful metaphor for the intrusion of otherworldly forces into our reality. It suggests that there might exist powerful beings or entities beyond our comprehension who are taking a keen interest in our existence. This theme raises questions about the nature of these beings and their intentions. Are they benevolent entities guiding us towards a brighter future, or are they malevolent forces seeking to manipulate and control humanity? The song leaves us to ponder these possibilities.Another lyric that captures the imagination is "Where the books were found by the Golden ones, written in pain, written in awe." Here, Bowie envisions a world in which ancient knowledge, hidden from us for centuries, is finally discovered by a select few. The Golden ones, representing those who possess this newfound wisdom, become the custodians of a profound and transformative understanding. However, the juxtaposition of pain and awe suggests that attaining this knowledge comes at a cost. It reminds us that enlightenment often involves sacrifice and that the pursuit of truth can be a challenging and tumultuous journey.The chorus itself is a powerful commentary on the impact of change at a societal level. "Oh, you Pretty Things, don't you know you're driving your mamas and papas insane?" The term Homo Superior suggests a new breed of human, one that surpasses the limitations of our current species. Bowie challenges the status quo as he urges society to make way for this new incarnation of humanity. This theme touches on the notion of progress and the fear of the unknown, as it suggests that the future is uncertain and potentially disruptive to the existing order.Moreover, Bowie's observation, "Look out at your children, see their faces in golden rays," implies that the younger generation holds the key to the future. The idea of golden rays evokes a sense of radiance and possibility, suggesting that the children embody hope and promise. However, the line "Don't kid yourself, they belong to you" serves as a warning against complacency and negligence. It reminds us that we bear responsibility for the upbringing and development of the next generation. We must nurture and guide them to ensure their potential is realized in a positive and constructive manner.The final lyrics, "Homo Sapiens have outgrown their use," confront us with the unsettling possibility that humanity's time is coming to an end. This line challenges our perception of ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution and forces us to confront the fragility of our existence. It suggests that perhaps humanity has fulfilled its purpose and that a new era, represented by the Homo Superior, is on the horizon. This revelation raises questions about the very nature of progress and the cyclical nature of existence.In conclusion, 'Oh! You Pretty Things' is a captivating song that delves into a multitude of imaginative themes. Bowie's lyrics transport us to a world where otherworldly forces, ancient knowledge, and the potential for human evolution collide. The song encourages us to contemplate the future of our species, the responsibility we bear towards the next generation, and the limits of our own understanding of the universe. Ultimately, it challenges us to embrace change, question established norms, and consider the profound possibilities that lie ahead.