Time

David Bowie's song "Time" is a profound meditation on the inexorable passage of time and its impact on human life. The lyrics personify time as a character, attributing to it human-like qualities and actions. Time is depicted as a manipulative and almost malevolent force, waiting in the wings and speaking of senseless things. This personification suggests that time is an omnipresent entity that influences every aspect of our lives, often in ways that seem arbitrary or cruel.

The song's imagery is vivid and often jarring, with references to Quaaludes, red wine, and a sniper in the brain. These elements evoke a sense of chaos and disorientation, reflecting the unpredictable and often harsh nature of time. The line "I look at my watch it say 9:25 and I think, Oh God, I'm still alive" captures a moment of existential reflection, highlighting the fleeting nature of life and the constant awareness of time's passage. The repetition of the phrase "We should be on by now" underscores a sense of urgency and the pressure to achieve or move forward, a common human experience in the face of time's relentless march.

Bowie also touches on themes of love and loss, suggesting that time can erode even the most cherished relationships. The lines "Breaking up is hard, but keeping dark is hateful" and "Love has left you dreamless" convey a sense of melancholy and resignation. Despite the darkness, there is a glimmer of hope in the idea of smiling through the darkness, suggesting that while time may bring challenges and pain, it also offers moments of resilience and strength. The song's closing lines, with their repeated "La, la, la," provide a haunting yet almost defiant refrain, as if to say that despite everything, life goes on.

"Time" is a rich and complex song that delves into the human condition, exploring how we grapple with the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the enduring power of love and memory. Bowie's poetic lyrics and evocative imagery make it a timeless piece that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.