Meaning of "Kooks" by David Bowie

"Kooks" is a heartfelt and tender song that captures the love and reassurance a parent provides to their child. The lyrics reflect the parents' belief in their child's potential and their willingness to support them no matter what. The term "kooks" is used affectionately to describe the child's individuality and their ability to eschew societal norms. By encouraging their child to embrace their uniqueness, the parents are ultimately promoting acceptance" style="color:inherit; font-weight:900; background-color: #ebfbd3;">self-acceptance and confidence.

The song addresses several themes, including love, acceptance, and the parent-child bond. The parents express their unwavering faith in their child's abilities, urging them to take risks and not be afraid to be different. They even poke fun at themselves, acknowledging their own shortcomings and assuring their child that they are not alone in facing challenges. The lyrics suggest that the parents aim to create a safe and nurturing environment for their child, shielding them from harm and providing them with the tools and support they need to navigate through life.

The chorus of the song, with its repetition of "Will you stay in our lovers' story," highlights the parents' desire for their child to remain connected to their family and the love that binds them together. They emphasize that by staying with them, the child will never be sorry and will always have a strong support system. The imagery of the parents buying things to keep the child warm and dry represents their dedication to providing for their child's physical needs.

The song also touches on the struggles and pressures of growing up, specifically addressing school and bullying. The parents offer advice to their child, counseling them not to engage in fights and reminding them that their own father is not skilled at physical confrontation. They reassure the child that they will always be there to defend and protect them. The lyric "And if the homework brings you down, then we'll throw it on the fire and take the car downtown" suggests a desire to escape the pressures of academia and prioritize the child's well-being and happiness.

Overall, "Kooks" is a celebration of parental love, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, support, and the freedom to be oneself. It encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and offers solace to those who may feel different or misunderstood.