Song review: Lost in space with Major Tom

Mykel Del Angel | THE COSMIC CURRENT GRAPHICS

David Bowie is known for his frequent use of space imagery, but there is one song in particular that has captured the attention of generations of listeners.

“Space Oddity” is a fascinating song, and for the past few weeks, it has held a special place in my life.

What first drew me in was the story of Major Tom, an astronaut preparing to venture into space. A seemingly successful mission gradually becomes something much more uncertain as communication with Ground Control breaks down, leaving Major Tom stranded.

Musically, that journey begins quietly. The opening alternates between F major 7 and E minor, establishing a melancholic and slightly unsettled atmosphere before the harmony begins to expand as Major Tom's journey unfolds. The song never seems comfortable staying in one place, which complements a story about someone traveling farther away from everything familiar.

Despite the melancholy, “Space Oddity” is remarkably soothing. There are moments that even feel hopeful, which I like to imagine as the wonder Major Tom experiences as he looks out at everything the universe has to offer.

My favorite section comes when Ground Control repeatedly calls out to Major Tom after communication begins to disappear. Underneath those calls, the bass descends chromatically, making each repetition feel increasingly desperate. The song then returns to the softer sound associated with the song’s chorus before drifting into an instrumental ending that feels uncertain, yet strangely hopeful.

There are countless interpretations of what “Space Oddity” means, but I hear it as a song about leaving somewhere familiar to explore uncharted territory, even when doing so means leaving people behind and taking part of the journey alone.

That interpretation resonates deeply with me. I have people I cherished along the way as I pursued new opportunities and experiences. When I listen to “Space Oddity,” I sometimes feel like Major Tom: the connection to Earth is getting fainter, and I am floating farther into something unknown.

I just hope there is something worth discovering out there.