Meaning of Praying Hands by David Bowie

In the enigmatic and thought-provoking song "Praying Hands" by David Bowie, the overall theme appears to revolve around the juxtaposition between control and submission, with a satirical twist. Through clever wordplay and contradictory imagery, Bowie delves into the human struggle for power and the absurdity of blindly adhering to societal expectations. Let's explore some standout lyrics that contribute to the development of these themes.The opening lines of the song set the stage for the metaphorical journey ahead. "You got your left hand, you got your right hand" presents the idea of duality, emphasizing the opposing forces within us all. This can be interpreted as an exploration of the internal struggle between control and surrender. The left hand represents the need for freedom and self-expression, while the right hand symbolizes societal norms and conformity.The verse continues, "Well, the left hand's diddling, while the right hand goes to work." Here, Bowie cleverly uses sexual innuendo to discuss the conflict between personal desires and societal obligations. The left hand, associated with pleasure and self-indulgence, represents the innate human need for individuality and freedom. In contrast, the right hand represents societal expectations, urging individuals to conform and fulfill their duties without question. This lyric beautifully encapsulates the theme of internal conflict.Moving forward, the chorus introduces a satirical tone, playfully subverting common directives. "Wash your hands three times a day. Always do what your mom and dad say" takes mundane and seemingly innocuous instructions and highlights their absurdity. Through this lyrical twist, Bowie suggests that blindly following authority figures, whether parental or societal, can lead to a loss of personal agency. This theme ties back to the overarching idea of control versus submission, highlighting the futility of strictly adhering to external expectations rather than following one's own path.The repetition of the verse further emphasizes the struggle between control and surrender, with Bowie reintroducing the conflict between the left and right hands. The lyrics "Well, the left hand's diddling while the right hand goes to work" reiterates the tension within individuals, perpetuating the dichotomy between personal desires and societal demands. This repetition reinforces the ongoing internal battle faced by individuals: to what extent should one follow their own desires or conform to external pressures?Moreover, the pre-chorus lyrics inject a humorous element into the song, provoking contemplation through absurd imagery. "Roll over, play dead, get spiritual-minded" juxtaposes the trivial action of a dog obeying commands with the pursuit of spirituality. This contrast suggests that blindly adhering to external expectations, even if they are seemingly important or sacred, may hinder personal growth and self-discovery.In conclusion, "Praying Hands" by David Bowie masterfully explores the theme of control versus submission, providing biting social commentary through clever wordplay and unexpected imagery. The contrasting forces symbolized by the left and right hands delve into the internal struggle between personal freedom and societal demands. Bowie encourages listeners to critically examine the expectations placed upon them, highlighting the importance of individual autonomy and self-expression. By subverting conventional wisdom and injecting humor into his lyrics, Bowie challenges us to question and redefine our relationship with authority. Ultimately, "Praying Hands" serves as a compelling and thought-provoking anthem that invites us to break free from the shackles of conformity and embrace our true selves.