David Bowie's book recommendations for those into artistic innovation
What's the story
David Bowie, the music and art world icon, was known for his groundbreaking music and his voracious reading habits. His eclectic literary tastes encompassed a wide range of genres, providing a glimpse into the creative mind of one of the most influential artists of our time. This article explores the books that influenced Bowie's artistry.
Orwellian influence
'1984' inspired Bowie's dystopian views
George Orwell's 1984 left an indelible mark on David Bowie, serving as a muse for his dystopian-tinged discography. The novel's chilling portrayal of surveillance, government manipulation, and the erosion of individuality struck a chord with Bowie, culminating in his Orwellian concept album Diamond Dogs. This album offers a bleak glimpse into a post-apocalyptic society under the thumb of an authoritarian regime, echoing Orwell's vision in 1984.
Ancient echoes
Greek classics shaped his mythological references
David Bowie's artistic genius was significantly shaped by his fascination with Greek classics, particularly Homer's The Iliad and The Odyssey. These epic poems, teeming with mythological themes and characters, served as a rich tapestry from which Bowie wove elements into his music and stage personas. The tales of heroism, adventure, and the interplay of gods provided Bowie with a vast canvas that resonated with his own quest for artistic expression.
Kafkaesque worlds
Kafka's absurdism mirrored in lyrics
David Bowie was deeply influenced by Franz Kafka's The Trial in his songwriting. The absurdity and existential dread in Kafka's work echoed the alienation themes Bowie grappled with in his lyrics. Life on Mars? exemplifies this influence, navigating surreal scenarios and sharp societal critiques. Through this Kafkaesque lens, Bowie masterfully infused complex emotions and ideas into his music, creating powerful connections with his audience.
Linguistic exploration
George Steiner's ideas on language and silence
In George Steiner's 'After Babel', he explores the nature of language as a tool for communication and its profound influence on society. This book changed the way Bowie approached language in his lyrics. Steiner's concepts inspired him to play with linguistic structures within his songs, challenging the limitations of language to express intricate emotions and ideas.
Beat Movement
Jack Kerouac ignited a sense of adventure
Jack Kerouac's On The Road was a touchstone for David Bowie, embodying the restless spirit of freedom and discovery that would become a hallmark of his career. The book's celebration of spontaneity and its transformative impact on American culture during the Beat Generation resonated deeply with Bowie. It inspired him to embrace a similar sense of adventure, both in his personal life and through his groundbreaking musical explorations.