Unwashed And Somewhat Slightly Dazed

David Bowie's 'Unwashed And Somewhat Slightly Dazed' is a vivid and surreal exploration of societal alienation and personal disarray. The song's protagonist appears to be an outcast, observing the world from a skewed perspective. The opening lines, where the protagonist addresses a 'pretty girl' spying on him, set the tone for a narrative filled with self-deprecation and social critique. The protagonist acknowledges his lower status and the disdain he receives from those in higher social echelons, symbolized by the girl's father's house. This dynamic highlights the class divide and the protagonist's awareness of his place within it.

The lyrics are rich with metaphors and vivid imagery, painting a picture of a man who is both physically and mentally deteriorating. Descriptions like 'a phallus in pigtails' and 'blood on my nose' suggest a grotesque self-image, while 'my tissue is rotting where the rats chew my bones' evokes a sense of decay and hopelessness. The protagonist's repeated 'brainstorms' indicate a mind in turmoil, further emphasized by his claim of being 'raving mad and somewhat slightly dazed.' This chaotic mental state is mirrored in the surreal and disjointed imagery throughout the song, such as 'electric tomatoes' and 'children in washrooms holding hands with a queen.'

Bowie's lyrics also touch on themes of escapism and rebellion. The protagonist invites the girl to spend time with him, despite his unwashed and dazed condition, suggesting a desire to break free from societal norms and expectations. The final verses depict the girl's reaction to the protagonist's world, as she becomes physically ill and overwhelmed by the bizarre and unsettling reality he presents. This reaction underscores the stark contrast between the protagonist's chaotic existence and the girl's more sheltered life. Ultimately, 'Unwashed And Somewhat Slightly Dazed' is a powerful commentary on social alienation, mental instability, and the desire to escape from societal constraints.