Meaning of "Cowboy" by The Sugarcubes

The lyrics of "Cowboy" by The Sugarcubes can be interpreted as a metaphor for the struggle to hold onto one's identity, values, and sense of belonging in a changing and unfamiliar environment. The cowboy represents a traditional, rugged individual who is out of place in the bustling city, symbolizing a clash between old and new, rural and urban. Despite his efforts to find his lost pony, he ultimately undergoes a transformation that alters his essence, turning him into a "were-cowboy." This transformation could symbolize the challenges and sacrifices one must make in order to adapt and survive in a foreign environment, losing a part of oneself in the process. Björk's character's fascination with the cowboy may represent a longing for authenticity and purity amidst a world that is increasingly complex and artificial. Overall, the lyrics delve into themes of identity, adaptation, and sacrifice in the face of change and challenges.