Meaning of Success by David Bowie

The song "Success" by David Bowie has a multifaceted theme that delves into the complicated nature of success and its impact on an individual's identity, relationships, and perception of the world. With his signature bold and poetic lyrics, Bowie takes us on a journey of self-discovery and self-expression in the face of achievement.One standout lyric that captures the essence of the song is "Here comes my car, here comes my Chinese rug." At first glance, these lines may seem superficial, representing material possessions that symbolize wealth and success. However, digging deeper, we can interpret these lyrics as a commentary on the internal struggle that success can bring. The car and the rug may be seen as external markers of achievement, but they also embody the pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle and image. This pressure can lead to a loss of authenticity and a sense of being trapped by one's own success.Another important lyric that contributes to the song's theme is "In the last ditch, I'll think of you." These lines evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing amidst the pursuit of success. It suggests that no matter how high one climbs on the ladder of achievement, there may always be a yearning for a deeper connection and emotional fulfillment. It highlights the inherent loneliness that can come with success and the need for genuine human connection to feel truly fulfilled.Perhaps one of the most intriguing lyrics in the song is "Here comes my face, it's plain bizarre." This line touches on the concept of self-identity and how success can distort one's perception of themselves. The adjectives "plain bizarre" suggest a dissonance between the external image one presents to the world and their internal reality. Success may lead to feeling out of touch with one's true self, ultimately creating a sense of alienation and a desire to break free from societal expectations.Furthermore, the repeated phrase "Here comes success, oh hooray success" presents a satirical depiction of how society celebrates success without delving into the complexities beneath the surface. It brings attention to the common misconception that success guarantees happiness or fulfillment. Bowie challenges this notion and asks listeners to consider the psychological and emotional toll that success can entail.Ultimately, "Success" delves into the multifaceted nature of achievement and its impact on an individual's identity, relationships, and perception of the world. Through imaginative and unexpected interpretations of the song's standout lyrics, Bowie invites us to reflect on the price one may have to pay for success and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures. It serves as a poignant reminder to question the notion of success and to prioritize genuine human connections and personal growth over material achievements.