Meaning of The Width Of A Circle by David Bowie

The David Bowie song 'The Width Of A Circle' is a vibrant and thought-provoking piece that explores various themes within its lyrics. At its core, the song delves into the human experience and the journey of self-discovery. It touches upon concepts such as self-reflection, personal growth, and the exploration of one's own identity. Through poetic storytelling and imaginative symbolism, Bowie takes listeners on a musical odyssey that invites reflection and sparks the imagination.One standout lyric that encapsulates the theme of self-reflection is "Then I ran across a monster who was sleeping by a tree, and I looked and frowned, and the monster was me." This line portrays the realization of facing one's own flaws and inner demons. It suggests that our own struggles and shortcomings can often manifest as external obstacles. It encourages introspection and acknowledges the need for self-awareness as a crucial step towards personal growth and overcoming adversities.Another intriguing lyric that expands on the theme of personal growth is "I cried for all the others until the day was nearly through, for I realized that God's a young man too." Here, Bowie challenges the conventional perception of divinity by suggesting that even a higher power is subject to growth, change, and the same emotions experienced by humanity. This lyric invites contemplation on the fluid nature of spirituality and encourages individuals to approach their own spiritual journeys with an open mind and a willingness to evolve.A lyric that resonates with the theme of exploring one's own identity is "Got laid by a young bordello, who was vaguely half asleep." While initially titillating, this line metaphorically represents a fleeting encounter with an alluring but superficial aspect of oneself. It highlights the importance of seeking genuine connections and embracing authenticity rather than being lured by illusions and temporary gratification. This lyric reminds us of the need to remain true to ourselves amidst societal pressure to conform.The line "He swallowed his pride and puckered his lips, and showed me the leather belt round his hips" captures the theme of confronting fears and embracing vulnerability. It suggests that true growth and self-discovery often require being willing to expose oneself to uncomfortable or confrontational situations. By facing fears and opening up to new experiences, one can break free from their own limitations and grow both emotionally and spiritually.Overall, 'The Width Of A Circle' paints a vivid and imaginative picture of the human experience. Bowie tackles the themes of self-reflection, personal growth, and the exploration of one's own identity with bold lyricism. Each standout lyric helps to develop unexpected and imaginative facets of these themes, inviting listeners to delve deeper into their own introspection and contemplate the different dimensions of their own journeys. With its poetic storytelling and imaginative symbolism, the song serves as a powerful reminder to embrace personal growth, confront fears, and continually explore the realms of one's own identity.