David Bowies Lazarus: The Bluebird and Its Symbolism
David Bowie's 'Lazarus': The Bluebird and Its Symbolism
The song Lazarus by David Bowie is a deeply personal and intricate piece that addresses themes of resurrection, struggle between life and death, and Bowies own battle with cancer at the time of its release. Specifically, the bluebird imagery in the lyrics has been a point of fascination and contemplation for many. This article delves into the possible meanings and interpretations of the bluebird in the context of the song.
Themes in 'Lazarus'
Lazarus is a narrative song that draws heavily on biblical and cultural symbols. The song itself explores the idea of resurrection and the continuous struggle between life and death. David Bowie, known for his complex and often enigmatic lyrics, uses the bluebird as a symbol that resonates with a range of emotions, from escape and liberation from suffering to happiness and new beginnings.
The Bluebird: A Symbol of Escape and Liberation from Suffering
One interpretation of the bluebird in Lazarus is that it represents a longing for escape or a sense of liberation from the suffering that accompanies life and illness. The bluebird is often found in literature and folklore associated with happiness and new beginnings, which ties perfectly into the overarching themes of rebirth and resurrection in the song.
The Influence of 'Bluebird' by Charles Bukowski
It's worth noting that the use of the bluebird in Lazarus may be inspired by Bluebird, a poem by Charles Bukowski. The poem itself explores themes of longing and escape. The reference to the bluebird in Bowie's song could be a nod to Bukowski's work, suggesting a shared exploration of the human quest for happiness and freedom.
The Bluebird as a Reminder to Live Life Fully
A simpler and perhaps more inclusive interpretation is that the bluebird is a symbol of the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in life. The line "dropped my cellphone down below" could be interpreted as a metaphor for detaching from trivial concerns and distractions, allowing oneself to live more authentically and fully. This notion ties into the broader message of the song, which is a call to let go of the mundane and focus on what truly matters.
Personal Interpretation and Subjectivity
Like many of Bowie's lyrics, the meaning of the bluebird in Lazarus can be subjective and open to personal interpretation. Listeners are encouraged to find their own significance in the imagery Bowie presents. This subjective nature of the lyrics allows for a wide range of interpretations, making the song both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Conclusion
The bluebird in Lazarus encapsulates a poignant message about the human search for happiness, liberation, and new beginnings. Whether seen as a symbol of escape, a reminder to live fully, or a reflection of the struggle between life and death, the bluebird remains a powerful and evocative element in the song. As with much of Bowie's work, the true meaning of the bluebird could be as simple or complex as each listener chooses to make it.