Meaning of The Supermen by David Bowie

"The Supermen" by David Bowie is an intriguing song that delves into the concept of beings who exist outside the realms of ordinary existence. The song highlights their extraordinary abilities, their endless and timeless lives, and their connection to a loveless island. As we delve into the lyrics, we'll explore a multitude of unexpected themes that emerge, all of which feed into the overarching theme of transcendence.The opening verse sets the stage for the world these supermen inhabit. Bowie describes a time when the world was young and filled with mysterious mountain magic. The supermen, walking in file, emerge as guardians of a loveless isle. This notion of a loveless island can be seen as a metaphor for isolation and detachment. It suggests that while these supermen possess incredible powers, they are confined within their own existence, unable to experience genuine love and connection.Moving on, the lyrics describe the supermen as gloomy-browed and burdened with superfear. This characterization highlights a sense of melancholy and underlying sadness within their lives. Despite their endless and tragic existence, they are unable to feel emotions such as joy or pain. This somber paradox showcases the bittersweet nature of their being, where their immense powers come at the cost of a fulfilling emotional experience.In the first chorus, the phrase "strange games they would play then" sparks our imagination. It hints at the idea that these supermen engage in unconventional activities beyond human understanding. This introduces the theme of the unknown and the exploration of limits. They push boundaries and defy norms in their pursuit of new experiences, unhampered by mortal constraints."No death for the perfect men" further delves into the theme of immortality. The lyrics suggest that these supermen, with their colossal strength and absence of pain or joy, are essentially invulnerable. This raises questions about the concept of perfection and its implications. While they may be invincible on the surface, the absence of mortality also robs them of the essence of being human—the transient nature of life and the appreciation of each moment.The following line, "life rolls into one for them," suggests a mundane existence devoid of novelty. This theme explores the idea that eternal life could eventually become monotonous and lose its luster. It evokes a sense of ennui and the realization that even extraordinary beings can fall victim to the banality of a never-ending existence.The most striking aspect of this song lies in its exploration of the vulnerability underlying these supermen's existence. The line "so softly a supergod cries" drives this point home. Despite their immense power and invulnerability, they are not immune to pain or despair. This theme unveils a deeper layer of humanity within these extraordinary beings, highlighting the inner fragility that coexists with their external strength.Building on this notion of vulnerability, the second verse introduces the idea of minds in "uni-thought." This concept invokes shared consciousness and collective intelligence. Despite their individual powers, the supermen are part of something greater, connected to one another on a profound level. This theme explores the importance of unity and shared experiences, suggesting that even those who are seemingly separate can find solace in the bond of collective understanding.As the lyrics describe "sad-eyed mermen tossed in slumbers, nightmare dreams no mortal mind could hold," we witness a shift in focus. The theme moves towards the realm of subconscious thoughts and fears that elude ordinary comprehension. Here, Bowie touches upon the impact of these supermen's existence on the human psyche. They become figures that haunt our dreams, encapsulating a fear of the unknown and a fascination with the supernatural.The line "a man would tear his brother's flesh, a chance to die, to turn to mold" offers a grim perspective on the destructive nature of power and immortality. This lyric contributes to the overarching theme by shedding light on the potential consequences of transcending the boundaries of mortality. It suggests that these supermen are not without their flaws and can succumb to their dark impulses. Furthermore, it emphasizes the inevitability of decay and the transient nature of all things, immortality notwithstanding.In the second chorus, the phrase "far out in the red sky, far out from the sad eyes" conjures images of otherworldly vistas and distant galaxies. This theme adds an element of escapism as the supermen seek refuge and solace beyond the confines of Earth. It reflects a yearning to transcend the limitations of their existence and find a place where they can be truly free.Further reinforcing the theme of transcendence, the line "strange, mad celebration" suggests that these supermen revel in their uniqueness and engage in unconventional forms of jubilation. This theme speaks to the joy and liberation that can be found in embracing one's own individuality and defying societal norms.The closing line, "so softly a supergod dies," brings us full circle, returning to the vulnerability and mortality that exist within even the most powerful beings. It highlights the paradoxical nature of their existence, reminding us that even the extraordinary must confront their own mortality. This theme acts as a reminder that life's impermanence is what gives it meaning and significance."The Supermen" by David Bowie is a thought-provoking song that explores the complexities of existence beyond mortal boundaries. Through its various standout lyrics, it weaves a tapestry of unexpected themes, including isolation, collective consciousness, vulnerability, and the allure of escapism. Ultimately, these themes converge to reinforce the broader message of the song—the longing for transcendence, the yearning to break free of the limitations of ordinary existence, and the simultaneous joy and sorrow that accompany such a journey of self-discovery.