The Passenger

Siouxsie And The Banshees' rendition of 'The Passenger' is a vivid exploration of urban life and the sense of detachment that often accompanies it. The song, originally written by Iggy Pop, delves into the experience of being an observer in a bustling cityscape. The lyrics paint a picture of a passenger riding through the city's 'backsides,' witnessing the 'bright and hollow sky' and the stars that emerge at night. This imagery evokes a sense of wonder and melancholy, highlighting the beauty and emptiness of the urban environment.

The recurring theme of being 'under glass' and looking through a window suggests a barrier between the passenger and the world outside. This metaphor can be interpreted as a commentary on modern life, where individuals often feel disconnected from their surroundings despite being physically present. The passenger's journey is both literal and metaphorical, representing a quest for meaning and connection in a fragmented world. The repetition of 'la la la' throughout the song adds a hypnotic quality, emphasizing the cyclical nature of this experience.

The song also touches on themes of ownership and belonging. The lines 'everything was made for you and me' and 'it just belongs to you and me' suggest a shared claim to the urban landscape. This can be seen as a call to embrace and explore the world around us, despite the sense of alienation that may come with it. By inviting the listener to 'take a ride and see what's mine,' the song encourages a deeper engagement with our environment and a recognition of our place within it.