Life On Mars?

Jessica Lange's rendition of 'Life On Mars?' is a haunting exploration of disillusionment and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. The song opens with a vivid portrayal of a young girl with 'mousey hair' who is caught in a domestic struggle, with her parents pushing her away. This sets the stage for her escape into the world of cinema, where she finds herself entranced by the 'silver screen.' However, the films she watches are a 'sadd'ning bore' because they mirror the repetitive and disheartening experiences of her own life. This metaphor highlights the girl's sense of entrapment and her yearning for something more profound and meaningful.

The chorus shifts the focus to a broader societal critique, depicting scenes of sailors fighting, cavemen, and lawmen beating up the wrong guy. These surreal images serve as a commentary on the absurdity and violence prevalent in society. The repeated question, 'Is there life on Mars?' underscores a sense of existential questioning and the search for a better, more meaningful existence beyond the confines of Earth. The reference to 'America's tortured brow' and 'Mickey Mouse has grown up a cow' further critiques the commercialization and moral decay in contemporary culture.

The second verse continues this theme, mentioning workers striking for fame and the commercialization of iconic figures like Lennon. The imagery of 'mice in their million hordes' and 'Rule Britannia is out of bounds' suggests a world overrun by trivial pursuits and a loss of traditional values. The girl's disillusionment is palpable as she realizes that the stories she sees on screen are just as empty as her own experiences. The song's surreal and fragmented narrative reflects the chaos and confusion of modern life, leaving the listener to ponder the possibility of finding true meaning and purpose.