Seven Years In Tibet

David Bowie's 'Seven Years In Tibet' is a haunting and enigmatic song that delves into themes of existentialism, spirituality, and the human condition. The lyrics open with a jarring image of a person who has been shot in the head, with an old woman holding their brains. This stark and surreal imagery sets the tone for a song that explores the fragility of life and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. The mention of drinking in the shadows and seeing nothing at all suggests a sense of disillusionment and a quest for deeper understanding.

The song's title and some of its imagery, such as the 'yoga-zone' and the 'mountain,' evoke the spiritual and mystical connotations associated with Tibet. Tibet is often seen as a place of spiritual refuge and enlightenment, and Bowie's lyrics seem to grapple with these themes. The line 'The frail form is drifting beyond the yoga-zone' could symbolize a transcendence beyond physical limitations and a journey into a higher state of consciousness. The questioning of the mountain and the absurdity of 'why pigs can fly' further emphasize the search for answers in a world that often seems nonsensical.

The repeated refrain 'I praise to you, nothing ever goes away' underscores a sense of permanence and the cyclical nature of existence. This could be interpreted as a reflection on the enduring nature of the human spirit and the idea that experiences, memories, and emotions are never truly lost. Bowie's delivery of these lines imbues them with a sense of reverence and resignation, suggesting a complex interplay between acceptance and longing. The song ultimately leaves the listener with a profound sense of introspection and a contemplation of the mysteries of life and death.