Meaning of Oh! You Pretty Things by David Bowie

In David Bowie's iconic song "Oh! You Pretty Things," the overall theme revolves around the idea of evolution and the potential replacement of Homo Sapiens by a superior race, Homo Superior. While the lyrics may initially seem enigmatic, diving deeper into the song reveals a multitude of fascinating and unexpected themes that contribute to its overall message.One standout lyric from the song is, "A crack in the sky and a hand reaching down to me." This lyric evokes a sense of divine intervention, suggesting that a higher power is involved in the evolution of humanity. The theme it develops is the idea of transcendence, where the crack in the sky represents a gateway to a new realm of existence. This unexpected theme explores the concept that our progress as a species may not solely depend on our own efforts but might be guided by external forces.Another thought-provoking lyric is, "Written in pain, written in awe, by a puzzled man who questioned what we were here for." This lyric delves into the theme of existentialism and the quest for purpose. It suggests that the Homo Superior, the evolved beings, are driven by a profound curiosity to understand their existence. This idea challenges the notion that purpose is a fixed concept and instead argues that we, as humans, have the agency to question and redefine our collective purpose.The chorus, "Oh you Pretty Things, don't you know you're driving your Mamas and Papas insane," adds an intriguing twist to the song. It introduces the theme of generational conflict and the tension between the new and the old. The "Mamas and Papas" represent the older generation clinging to traditional values, while the "Pretty Things" symbolize the youth who embody the impending evolution. This theme highlights the universal cycle of change, where each new generation challenges and disrupts the established order.One standout line in the second verse reads, "Don't kid yourself they belong to you, they're the start of a coming race." This lyric explores the theme of ownership and control, challenging the notion that parents have an inherent right to dictate the lives of their children. It suggests that children are not simply an extension of their parents, but rather represent the hope for the future, a new race that will surpass their predecessors. This theme encourages introspection and reflection on the idea of control and the need to embrace change rather than restrain it.Lastly, the line, "The earth is a bitch, we've finished our news," introduces the theme of environmentalism and the consequences of human exploitation. It implies that Homo Sapiens have reached a critical point where their impact on the planet has become damaging and unsustainable. This unexpected theme in the song prompts listeners to reflect on the urgency of addressing environmental issues and taking responsibility for the well-being of our planet.In conclusion, "Oh! You Pretty Things" is a masterpiece that explores various thought-provoking themes. These themes include transcendence, existentialism, generational conflict, ownership, and environmentalism. Through its imaginative and unexpected lyrics, the song encourages listeners to question the human condition, embrace change, and strive for a future that transcends our current limitations. Bowie's visionary lyrics continue to inspire and challenge us, reminding us of the limitless possibilities that exist beyond the boundaries of our understanding.