Meaning of Red Sails by David Bowie

In David Bowie's song "Red Sails," the overall theme seems to encompass feelings of fear, uncertainty, and a longing for escape. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels "roughed up" and "frightened," going through life searching for a sense of belonging. The use of imagery with "red sails" suggests a desire for adventure and a departure from the mundane. Through various standout lyrics, Bowie explores different aspects of these themes, creating a unique and imaginative narrative.One of the standout lyrics in the song is "Red sail action, wake up in the wrong town." Here, Bowie introduces the idea of being displaced, feeling out of place in one's surroundings. This theme aligns with the feelings of fear and uncertainty mentioned earlier. The red sails can be seen as a symbol of hope and opportunity, beckoning the protagonist to embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling existence. The wrong town, therefore, represents the dissatisfaction with one's current circumstances and the desperate need for change.In the refrain, Bowie sings, "Thunder ocean, thunder ocean. Red sails take me, make me sail along. Red sails, and a mast so tall." This particular set of lyrics conjures images of elemental power and strength. The thunder ocean signifies a forceful and turbulent journey that the protagonist seeks. The red sails, once again, symbolize the desire to escape and find a new sense of purpose. The mention of the "mast so tall" reflects the protagonist's ambition and determination to rise above their current situation.Another impactful lyric in the song is "Do you remember, we another person. Green and black and red and so scared." Here, Bowie brings forth the notion of multiple identities or personas within oneself. The mention of different colors, such as green, black, and red, invokes a sense of complexity and depth. This lyric suggests that the protagonist has experienced a transformation, no longer feeling like the same person they once were. The fear mentioned ties back to the overall theme, representing the uncertainty and vulnerability that comes with embracing change.In the third verse, Bowie sings, "Action boy seen living under neon. Struggle with a foreign tongue. Red sails make him strong. Action make him sail along." This particular verse introduces the idea of resilience and adaptability. The protagonist is described as an "action boy," someone who thrives despite their unfamiliar surroundings. The struggle with a foreign tongue can be interpreted as a metaphor for navigating unfamiliar territories or venturing into uncharted waters. The red sails, once again, serve as a source of strength, enabling the protagonist to overcome obstacles and continue their journey forward.As the song comes to a close, Bowie leaves us with the powerful image of the hinterland, a remote and unknown place. He sings, "We're going to sail to the hinterland. And it's far far, far far far, far far far away." The hinterland represents the promised land, the ultimate destination the protagonist is striving to reach. It is a place that holds the answers to their internal dilemmas and a sanctuary where they can find peace and fulfillment. The repetition of "far far far away" emphasizes the arduousness of their journey, but also underscores the unwavering determination to attain their desired destination.Overall, "Red Sails" is a multifaceted song that explores themes of fear, displacement, longing, and transformation. Through its imaginative and poetic lyrics, David Bowie crafts a narrative that invites listeners to ponder their own desires for change and the courage required to embark on a new path. The red sails act as a powerful symbol throughout the song, representing hope, strength, and the protagonist's quest for a better life. Bowie's ability to evoke emotions and paint vivid imagery ultimately makes "Red Sails" a captivating and thought-provoking piece of musical art.