’Tis a Pity She Was a Whore

David Bowie's song '’Tis a Pity She Was a Whore' is a complex and provocative piece that delves into themes of violence, betrayal, and the chaotic nature of human relationships. The title itself is a nod to John Ford's 17th-century play 'Tis Pity She's a Whore,' which explores similarly dark themes of forbidden love and moral corruption. Bowie's lyrics are raw and visceral, painting a picture of a tumultuous relationship marked by physical and emotional conflict.

The opening lines, 'Man, she punched me like a dude / Hold your mad hands, I cried,' immediately set the tone for the song. The imagery of being punched 'like a dude' suggests a relationship that defies traditional gender roles and expectations. The violence is not one-sided; it is a mutual exchange, a 'war' as Bowie describes it. This war is not just physical but also emotional, as indicated by the line 'Black struck the kiss, she kept my cock,' which juxtaposes intimacy with aggression.

The recurring phrase 'That was patrol / This is the war' serves as a refrain that underscores the transition from a state of vigilance or routine ('patrol') to full-blown conflict ('war'). The theft of the purse symbolizes betrayal and loss, adding another layer of complexity to the relationship. The line '’Tis a pity she was a whore' is repeated throughout the song, serving as a lament for the destructive nature of the relationship. It suggests a sense of regret and inevitability, as if the chaos and conflict were destined from the start.

Bowie's musical style in this song is equally chaotic, blending elements of jazz, rock, and electronic music to create a dissonant and unsettling atmosphere. This mirrors the lyrical content, making the listener feel the same sense of disorientation and conflict that the lyrics describe. The song is a powerful exploration of the darker aspects of human relationships, capturing the complexity and intensity of love and war in a way that only Bowie can.