Meaning of The Width Of A Circle [bowie At The Beeb] by David Bowie

The song "The Width of a Circle" by David Bowie, released in 1970, is a captivating and thought-provoking piece that explores various themes through its haunting lyrics. At its core, the song delves into the concept of self-discovery and the journey of exploring one's true identity. Let's delve into some standout lyrics that help develop unexpected and imaginative themes within the overall narrative.In the opening verse, Bowie sings, "All the roads were straight and narrow, and the prayers were small and yellow." These lyrics imply a sense of confinement and limitation within societal norms. The theme that emerges here is the struggle to break free from the restrictions and expectations imposed by others. It highlights Bowie's desire to wander off the beaten path and embrace his true self.Further into the song, Bowie encounters a monster who turns out to be a reflection of himself. He realizes that his perceived "monster" persona is just another facet of his own identity. This revelation prompts Bowie to question the duality within himself and the notion of good versus evil. The theme that emerges is the exploration of one's shadow self and the acceptance of one's dark side. It encourages listeners to embrace all aspects of their personality, including the unconventional or misunderstood parts.As the song progresses, Bowie introduces the character of a blackbird who laughs insanely and quotes Khalil Gibran. This unexpected inclusion of poetic wisdom through the bird sparks the theme of finding enlightenment through unconventional sources. It challenges the notion that enlightenment can only come from traditional or academic means. Instead, Bowie suggests that unconventional and unexpected experiences or individuals can provide profound insights and wisdom.One particularly intriguing set of lyrics in the song states, "So I said 'So long' and I waved bye-bye, and I smashed my soul and traded my mind." These words evoke a sense of radical transformation and reinvention. The theme that emerges here is the idea of shedding one's old self and embracing a new one. Bowie suggests that personal growth and self-discovery often require leaving behind familiar comfort zones and embracing the unknown.Another set of lyrics that stands out in the song is, "He swallowed his pride and puckered his lips and showed me the leather belt round his hips." Here, Bowie delves into themes of sexual exploration and liberation. The lyrics hint at an encounter with a figure who challenges societal norms and pushes boundaries. This suggests the theme of breaking free from sexual repression and embracing all forms of desire without shame or judgment.Overall, "The Width of a Circle" is a captivating and imaginative exploration of themes such as self-discovery, the acceptance of one's shadow self, enlightenment from unconventional sources, personal transformation, and sexual liberation. Through its thought-provoking lyrics, the song invites listeners to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, embracing their true selves, and challenging societal norms. Bowie's ability to weave these unexpected themes together while maintaining a cohesive narrative is a testament to his artistic genius and ability to provoke introspection.