The meaning of Suffragette City by David Bowie

David Bowie's "Suffragette City" is a iconic song that has been widely interpreted over the years. The song was released in 1972 on his album "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars," and it's a glam rock masterpiece that blends elements of punk, art rock, and pop.

At its core, "Suffragette City" is a song about chaos and anarchy. The lyrics are filled with references to rioting and rebellion, and the song's title itself is a nod to the suffragette movement of the early 20th century. Bowie was known for his fascination with British culture and history, and this song is no exception.

The song's opening lines - "Flairies in a flashin' haze / Don't you remember" - set the tone for a frenetic and chaotic song that's all about breaking free from societal norms. The lyrics are full of clever wordplay and references to popular culture, with Bowie name-dropping everything from James Dean to Marlon Brando.

But beneath its surface-level punk rock energy, "Suffragette City" is also a deeply personal song. Bowie was going through a difficult time in his life when he wrote the song, having recently left his wife Angie and struggling to come to terms with his own identity as an artist. The song's themes of rebellion and chaos can be seen as a reflection of his inner turmoil.

Despite its tumultuous lyrics, "Suffragette City" is also a beautifully crafted song that showcases Bowie's mastery of melody and arrangement. The song features a driving beat and a memorable guitar riff that has been influential on countless rock bands over the years.

In many ways, "Suffragette City" is a quintessential David Bowie song - it's a fusion of art, rock, and pop that's both accessible and challenging at the same time. It's a testament to his innovative spirit and his ability to blend seemingly disparate styles into something truly unique.