Meaning of The Secret Life Of Arabia by David Bowie

"The Secret Life of Arabia" by David Bowie is a captivating and enigmatic song that delves into the hidden mysteries and allure of Arabian culture and adventure. The song's overarching theme explores the mystical and fascinating aspects of Arabia, delving into secret knowledge and the unexplored corners of life. Let's break down some of the standout lyrics and the imaginative themes they help develop.The chorus sets the tone for the entire song, with its repetition of "Secret secrets, never seen" and "Secret secrets, evergreen". These lines hint at the hidden realms and eternal mysteries that lie within Arabia. The concept of secrets that have never been seen suggests a world beyond what's visible to the naked eye, a realm of knowledge that awaits discovery.In the first verse, the line "I was running at the speed of life, through morning's thoughts and fantasies, then I saw your eyes at the cross fades" introduces the notion of a fast-paced existence, filled with dreams and imaginings. The reference to "cross fades" alludes to a blending or merging of realities, where the protagonist encounters a captivating gaze that draws them into another realm. This lyric evokes the theme of escapism and the allure of a secret world separate from the mundane.Moving back to the chorus, the repetition of "The secret life of Arabia" serves as a reminder of the central theme that runs throughout the entire song. It hints at a hidden existence within the vibrant culture of Arabia, a life that exists parallel to reality but remains concealed. The repetition of "never here, never seen" adds to the mystique, suggesting that this secret life can only be accessed through imagination or by those who are fortunate enough to stumble upon its elusive nature.The second verse introduces the line "You must see the movie, the sand in my eyes, I walk through a desert song when the heroine dies". This intriguing lyric brings together imagery from movies, deserts, and songs, creating a vivid tapestry of emotions and experiences. The idea of walking through a desert song when a heroine dies evokes a poignant and otherworldly moment caught between reality and fiction. It develops the theme of the power of storytelling and its ability to transport us to imaginary worlds within our own minds.As the chorus repeats, the word "Arabia" becomes a symbol for not only the geographic region but also the very concept of hidden knowledge and secrets. The repetition of the word takes on a rhythmic quality, almost like an incantation, drawing the audience further into the mysterious world Bowie is weaving. The lines "Secret, secret" emphasize the unseen, the unknown, and the allure of clandestine information.In conclusion, "The Secret Life of Arabia" by David Bowie invites listeners to journey into a hidden realm, where secrets and mysteries intertwine with the vibrant culture of Arabia. Each lyric in the song helps develop imaginative themes, exploring escapism, the power of storytelling, and the allure of hidden knowledge. Through this introspective exploration, Bowie invites us to embrace the enigmatic and embrace the wonders that exist beneath the surface. So, let yourself be transported by the melodies and lyrics, and allow your imagination to unravel the secrets of "The Secret Life of Arabia".