Little Wonder

David Bowie's 'Little Wonder' is a kaleidoscopic journey through a surreal landscape, blending whimsical imagery with cosmic themes. The song opens with a series of seemingly disjointed images: 'Stinky weather, fat shaky hands / Dopey morning Doc / Grumpy gnomes.' These lines evoke a sense of disorientation and absurdity, reminiscent of a dream or a fantastical world. The repeated phrase 'Little wonder then, little wonder' suggests a sense of inevitability or acceptance of the bizarre nature of reality. Bowie’s use of the Seven Dwarfs' names ('Dopey,' 'Grumpy,' 'Bashful') adds a layer of playful irony, contrasting the mundane with the fantastical.

As the song progresses, Bowie introduces more futuristic and intergalactic elements: 'Intergalactic, see me to be you / It's all in the tablets, sneezy Bhutan.' These lines hint at a merging of identities and a search for meaning in a technologically advanced world. The reference to 'tablets' could be interpreted as a nod to modern technology or even ancient wisdom, while 'sneezy Bhutan' adds a touch of exoticism and mystery. The chorus, with its repetitive 'Little wonder you,' emphasizes the enigmatic nature of the subject, be it a person, a concept, or the universe itself.

The song's bridge, 'Mars happy nation, sit on my karma / Dame meditation, take me away,' further delves into themes of spirituality and cosmic exploration. 'Mars happy nation' could symbolize a utopian vision of the future, while 'sit on my karma' suggests a reckoning with one's actions and their consequences. The plea for 'Dame meditation' to 'take me away' reflects a desire for transcendence and escape from the chaos of the world. The repeated refrain 'So far away' underscores a longing for distance, both physical and metaphysical, from the current state of being. In 'Little Wonder,' Bowie masterfully blends the whimsical with the profound, creating a song that is both playful and deeply introspective.