Lady Stardust

David Bowie's 'Lady Stardust' is a song that captures the essence of the glam rock era, with its celebration of androgyny, theatricality, and the blurring of gender lines. The song is often interpreted as a tribute to fellow glam rock icon Marc Bolan of T. Rex, or as a broader homage to the glam rock movement and its stars. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a gender-bending performer, 'Lady Stardust,' who captivates the audience with his enigmatic presence and songs filled with 'darkness and disgrace.' The makeup, long black hair, and 'animal grace' suggest a defiance of traditional gender norms and an embrace of a more fluid and expressive identity.

The chorus emphasizes the allure and acceptance of Lady Stardust's performance, with the repeated affirmation that 'he was alright' and the music's timeless quality ('the song went on forever'). This refrain suggests a communal celebration within the context of a live performance, where the audience is united in their admiration for the artist. The mention of 'femme fatales' and 'boys' as part of the captivated crowd highlights the diverse appeal of the performer, transcending conventional boundaries.

The personal touch comes in the final verse, where the narrator expresses a bittersweet sentiment, 'I smiled sadly for a love I could not obey.' This line could reflect the internal conflict between societal expectations and personal desires, a common theme in Bowie's work. 'Lady Stardust' is not just a character but a symbol of the freedom and challenges that come with living authentically in a world that may not always understand or accept difference. The song is a celebration of the outsider and the transformative power of music and performance.