The meaning of Blackstar by David Bowie

Blackstar is a song by David Bowie that was released on his 28th studio album, Blackstar, in 2016. The song's lyrics are deeply personal and open to interpretation, but they appear to be about mortality, legacy, and the fleeting nature of life.

The song begins with the lines "Something happened and maybe it meant something / Maybe next December will undo the damage that has been done" - these opening lines set the tone for a song that is both introspective and forward-thinking. The lyrics go on to touch on themes of fame, identity, and the desire to be remembered after one's death.

One of the most striking aspects of Blackstar is its use of imagery and metaphor to explore these themes. For example, the line "I've seen it all / I hoped you'd see things my way" could be interpreted as a commentary on Bowie's own life and career - he was known for his innovative approach to music and art, and the song may be seen as a reflection of his desire to be remembered for his contributions.

The song also features a number of musical motifs that are characteristic of Bowie's work. The use of jazz rhythms and instrumentation adds a sense of sophistication and nuance to the song, while the prominent piano part gives it a sense of intimacy and vulnerability.

Despite its somewhat somber tone, Blackstar is ultimately a hopeful song - it's a meditation on mortality that acknowledges the impermanence of life, but also celebrates the beauty and significance of the time we have. As Bowie sings in the final chorus: "Though it happens even as we celebrate / Aha! / You get what you deserve / It's all coming back to haunt you."