Look Back In Anger

David Bowie's 'Look Back In Anger' is a compelling exploration of regret, frustration, and the passage of time. The song opens with a mysterious figure, an angel, who seems to be a harbinger of change or a reminder of past actions. The angel's crumpled wings and weary demeanor suggest a sense of exhaustion and disillusionment, setting a somber tone for the narrative. This figure could symbolize a conscience or a messenger of fate, urging the protagonist to confront their past.

The recurring refrain, 'Look back in anger, driven by the night,' encapsulates the song's central theme. The night often symbolizes darkness, confusion, and introspection, suggesting that the protagonist is grappling with unresolved emotions and memories. The repetition of 'waiting so long' emphasizes a prolonged period of anticipation and frustration, hinting at a deep-seated yearning for resolution or closure. The phrase 'till you come' adds a layer of ambiguity, possibly referring to a person, a moment of clarity, or an awaited change.

Bowie's lyrics also touch on the theme of isolation. The angel's words go unheard, and he resorts to mundane activities like leafing through a magazine and yawning. This imagery conveys a sense of detachment and the struggle to communicate profound feelings in a world that seems indifferent. The line 'very sane he seemed to me' contrasts with the underlying turmoil, highlighting the facade of normalcy that often masks inner conflict. Through 'Look Back In Anger,' Bowie masterfully blends poetic imagery with raw emotion, creating a haunting reflection on the human experience of regret and the relentless passage of time.