Meaning of Time Will Crawl, 2018 by David Bowie

In the haunting and enigmatic song "Time Will Crawl" by David Bowie, the musician delves into the complex theme of the passage of time and its impact on various aspects of life. With his trademark creativity and poetic lyrics, Bowie weaves a musical narrative that offers a unique perspective on this universal concept.Throughout the song, Bowie presents a series of compelling lyrics that serve as touchstones for exploring the themes he seeks to convey. Let's delve deeper into some of these standout lines to unearth the unexpected and imaginative themes that lie within.In the opening verse, Bowie sings, "I've never sailed on a sea, I would not challenge a giant, I could not take on the church." These lines convey a sense of limitation and the fear of venturing into the unknown. This theme of hesitation and self-doubt in the face of daunting challenges resonates with our own anxieties and insecurities. Bowie captures the essence of the struggle to overcome personal boundaries and embrace new experiences.Another intriguing lyric comes in the chorus, "Time will crawl 'til our feet grow small." Here, Bowie introduces the concept of time distorting our perception of reality. This remarkable image suggests a state of perpetual motion in which our lives shrink in significance. The theme of insignificance in the face of time's unstoppable march speaks to the transient nature of human existence and the importance of cherishing each moment we have.Bowie further expands upon the theme of time's influence in the second verse with the lines, "I saw a black, black stream full of white-eyed fish, and a drowning man with no eyes at all." These vivid images evoke a sense of surrealism and hint at the destructive power of time. The fish with white eyes symbolize blindness to the passing of time, while the drowning man reflects the inevitable fate that awaits us all. Bowie delves into the theme of mortality and the urgency to make the most of our limited time.One of the most intriguing lyrics in the song comes in the third verse, "You were a talented child, you came to live in our town, we never bothered to scream when your mask went off, we only smelt the gas as we lay down to sleep." Here, Bowie explores the theme of conformity and the stifling effect it can have on individuality. The reference to the mask alludes to the masks we wear in society to fit in and avoid judgment. The unsettling image of smelling gas as we lay down to sleep symbolizes the danger in ignoring our authentic selves, suggesting the toxicity of denying our true identities.Throughout "Time Will Crawl," Bowie offers a profound commentary on the various aspects encompassed within the overarching theme of time. His lyrics explore the fear of taking risks, the distortion of reality, the transient nature of existence, the confrontation of mortality, and the dangers of conformity. This creative and imaginative exploration of time's impact on our lives invites listeners to reflect deeply on their own experiences and embrace the precious moments that pass us by.In true Bowie fashion, the song's introspective lyrics and thought-provoking themes make "Time Will Crawl" a timeless piece of art that continues to resonate with audiences long after its release. So why not take a moment, hit play, and allow yourself to be immersed in the rich tapestry of sound and meaning that Bowie so masterfully weaves.