David Bowie’s haunting composition explores themes of identity, legacy, and inner conflict. The lyrics depict a protagonist grappling with self-knowledge and the shadow of their father's influence. The recurring line "My father ran the prison" symbolizes a controlling or oppressive paternal figure whose impact shapes the narrator's sense of self. The juxtaposition between love and hate reflects an internal struggle to reconcile feelings towards their father, suggesting that love is intertwined with pain and betrayal. Bowie's introspective verses delve into existential ambiguity, as the narrator admits uncertainty about their true identity while oscillating between roles of seer and liar. Ultimately, the song captures a profound meditation on personal history and the complex emotions tied to familial relationships.
