valentine by David Bowie (2024)

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The information you shared is an excerpt from the Wikipedia article about David Bowie, a renowned English singer-songwriter and actor. Bowie is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century and is known for his innovative work during the 1970s. He was acclaimed for his reinvention and visual presentation, and his music and stagecraft had a significant impact on popular music.

Bowie's career spanned several decades, and he explored various musical styles throughout his life. He had numerous successful albums, including "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars" (1972), "Young Americans" (1975), "Station to Station" (1976), and "Let's Dance" (1983). He also ventured into acting, with notable roles in films such as "The Man Who Fell to Earth" (1976) and "Labyrinth" (1986).

Bowie's music and persona resonated with audiences worldwide, and he achieved massive commercial success in the 1980s. His record sales exceeded 100 million records globally, making him one of the best-selling musicians of all time. He received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.

Bowie remained artistically active until his death from liver cancer in 2016, just two days after his 69th birthday and the release of his final album, "Blackstar." His impact on music and popular culture continues to be celebrated, and he is regarded as one of the greatest artists in history.

Now let's dive into the meaning of the lyrics of David Bowie's song "Valentine's Day" that you shared:

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Valentine's Day" are open to interpretation, as is common in Bowie's music. One interpretation suggests that the song could be about a school shooting or a gang attack, with Valentine being a young outsider who turns violent due to their feelings of isolation and being misunderstood. The lyrics "Valentine sold his soul" and "It's in his icy heart" also suggest a dark and disturbing transformation. The mention of the "teachers and the football stars" could also be a commentary on societal values and how they can lead to feelings of resentment.

Another interpretation suggests a more positive message to the song. Valentine could be seen as a voice of rebellion against the status quo, someone who sees the flaws in society and is not afraid to speak out against them. The line "Valentine knows it all, he's got something to say" could be seen as a call to action for the listener to also speak out against injustice and inequality.

Regardless of the interpretation, the song has a sense of urgency and intensity that is characteristic of Bowie's music. The repeated refrain of "Valentine, Valentine" creates a sense of foreboding and unease, while the upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it an unforgettable track.

Line by Line Meaning

• "Valentine told me who's to go": Valentine confided in someone about who he wanted to be with.
• "Feelings he treasured most of all": Valentine's most valued treasures are his emotions.
• "The teachers and the football stars": Valentine admires both academic and athletic achievements.
• "It's in his tiny face": Valentine's emotions are easily recognizable from his small face.
• "It's in his scrawny hands": Valentine's emotions are also seen in his thin hands.
• "Valentine sold his soul": He gave everything he had to achieve his dreams.
• "He's got something to say": There's a message he wishes to convey.
• "It's Valentine's day": This event is significant for Valentine.
• "The rhythm of the crowd": He feels the pulse of the masses.
• "Teddy and Judy down": Valentine takes notice of everyone.
• "Valentine sees it all": He observes everything very carefully.
• "Valentine told me how he feels": Valentine shared his emotions with someone.
• "If all the world were under his heels": If Valentine ruled the world.
• "Or stumbling through the mall": Even if the world is chaotic.
• "Valentine knows it all": He is confident and knowledgeable about everything.
• "Valentine, Valentine": His name is repeated for emphasis.
• "It's in his icy heart": His emotions are deep and unyielding.
• "It's happening today": The important event is occurring today.

Please note that these interpretations are subjective and may vary from person to person. The beauty of music lies in its ability to evoke different emotions and thoughts in each listener.