Meaning of "You've Been Around" by David Bowie

The lyrics of "You've Been Around" by David Bowie delve into the complexity of personal relationships and the impact they can have on one's life. The speaker grapples with feelings of depression, loneliness, and an inability to distinguish clear boundaries between emotions and actions. The repeated refrain of "You've been around, but you've changed me," highlights the transformative power of interpersonal connections. The references to the "flesh meets the spirit world" and the "sound of tomorrow" suggest a deeper philosophical contemplation of existence and the passage of time. The change that the other person brings is both disorienting and profound, leading the speaker to question their own identity and perceptions. Overall, the lyrics paint a picture of emotional turmoil, growth, and the fluidity of human connections.