Meaning of Running Gun Blues by David Bowie

David Bowie's song 'Running Gun Blues' is a thought-provoking exploration of war, violence, and the destructive nature of humanity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a troubled protagonist, grappling with his own violent urges and the consequences of his actions. Through the analysis of standout lyrics in the song, we can delve deeper into the themes and underlying messages Bowie intended to convey.In the opening verse, Bowie sets the tone for the song, with the narrator counting the corpses on his left. This lyric immediately establishes the theme of violence and the dehumanizing effect it has on individuals. The protagonist, while recognizing the chaos he creates, feels an innate compulsion to continue. This highlights the internal struggle between their rational self and their instinct-driven violent nature. It serves as a reminder of humanity's capacity for destruction.The chorus of the song introduces us to the dark realities the protagonist faces. The line "I slashed them cold, I killed them dead" and "I broke the gooks, I cracked their heads" emphasize the dehumanization of the enemy. Through these lines, Bowie reflects on the dehumanizing effects war has on soldiers, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The lyrics reveal the destructive power of war, as the protagonist becomes an instrument of violence, losing touch with their own humanity.Additionally, the repetition of the line "But now I've got the running gun blues" in the chorus further emphasizes the inescapable cycle of violence. The 'running gun blues' represents the state of perpetual conflict the protagonist finds themselves trapped in, unable to break free from the cycle of violence. This theme resonates with the broader concept of war and its everlasting impact on individuals and society.Moving on to the second verse, Bowie introduces a new perspective on the consequences of war. The line "It seems the peacefuls stopped the war" refers to the idea that peacemakers achieve short-term resolutions, but fail to address the underlying wounds and tensions that perpetuate conflict. This lyric highlights the futility of war and the perpetual cycle of violence. Through this verse, Bowie invites us to question the effectiveness of pacifism and the complexities of conflict resolution.The final chorus brings the song to a climax, with the repetitive lines reinforcing the central theme. The lyrics "I'll slash them cold, I'll