Interpretation
Up the Hill Backwards is a song by
David Bowie, released in 1980 on his album "Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)". The lyrics of the song address various themes such as freedom, changes, and the illusory world of idols.
The song begins with the description of the vacuum created by the arrival of freedom and the possibilities it offers. Bowie sings: "It has nothing to do with you if you can understand it." Here he emphasizes that these changes have nothing to do with individual people, but rather general developments.
Furthermore, Bowie describes a series of shocks, such as sneakers falling apart and the ongoing movement of the Earth. This symbolizes the constant changes and challenges we are faced with. Bowie once again emphasizes that this has nothing to do with oneself, but rather general experiences.
The chorus "Yea, yea, yea - up the hill backwards, it'll be alright ooo-ooo" expresses a certain calmness and hope. Even though things may sometimes seem difficult, in the end, everything will be alright.
Throughout the song, Bowie also addresses the work that takes place in the background while we sleep and the legal constraints that can kill our love. He states that this has nothing to do with us if we can understand these things.
Finally, Bowie mentions the flooding of idols in the world compared to reality. He states that he is doing fine, but others are just so-so. Here, he emphasizes again that this has nothing to do with individual people.
Overall, the lyrics of "Up the Hill Backwards" can be interpreted as a reflection on changes, challenges, and the meaning of self in a fast-paced world. Bowie expresses the idea that most things that happen do not directly involve us, but rather general experiences that we must accept and deal with.