David Bowie, the iconic chameleon of rock, wasn’t just a musical genius; he was also an avid reader. His love of literature informed his songwriting, stage personas, and creative vision, proving that books can be as transformative as music itself. In 2016, the New York Public Library shared a list of Bowie’s Top 100 Books, offering a glimpse into the eclectic mind of one of the greatest artists of our time. For musicians and creators alike, this list is not just a peek into Bowie’s library—it’s a masterclass in inspiration.
Books and Bowie: The Creative Connection
Bowie once described himself as “a born librarian,” and his reading habits reflect his boundless curiosity. From beat poets to existential philosophers, postmodern fiction to political manifestos, Bowie’s favorite books span a wide range of genres and themes. His literary influences are evident in his music: the dystopian imagery of 1984 appears in the album Diamond Dogs, while the existential musings of Nietzsche echo through songs like “Quicksand.”
For musicians, Bowie’s reading list serves as a reminder that great art doesn’t exist in isolation. By consuming diverse ideas, creators can fuel their own work in unexpected ways.
Highlights from Bowie’s Literary Playlist
Here are a few standout books from Bowie’s Top 100, and how they might resonate with musicians:
- “On the Road” by Jack Kerouac
- Why it matters: The quintessential Beat Generation novel, Kerouac’s free-flowing prose mirrors the improvisational nature of jazz and the rebellious spirit of rock. Bowie’s relentless reinvention echoes the book’s themes of self-discovery and freedom.
- Takeaway for musicians: Embrace spontaneity and let your creativity roam freely.
- “The Master and Margarita” by Mikhail Bulgakov
- Why it matters: This Russian masterpiece is a surreal mix of politics, romance, and the supernatural. Bowie’s theatrical personas, such as Ziggy Stardust and the Thin White Duke, carry a similar blend of the fantastical and the profound.
- Takeaway for musicians: Don’t shy away from mixing the mystical and the mundane in your work.
- “A Clockwork Orange” by Anthony Burgess
- Why it matters: This dystopian classic influenced Bowie’s aesthetic, especially during his Aladdin Sane phase. Its exploration of violence, free will, and societal control resonates with themes in Bowie’s lyrics.
- Takeaway for musicians: Use your art to question authority and explore human nature.
- “The Stranger” by Albert Camus
- Why it matters: Camus’ existentialism is a recurring undercurrent in Bowie’s work, particularly in songs like “Life on Mars?” and “Heroes.”
- Takeaway for musicians: Contemplate life’s deeper meanings and channel them into your songwriting.
- “In Cold Blood” by Truman Capote
- Why it matters: This non-fiction novel explores the psychology of crime, blending journalistic rigor with literary style. Bowie admired Capote’s ability to delve into the human psyche.
- Takeaway for musicians: Write songs that dig into raw emotions and real-life stories.
How Musicians Can Learn from Bowie’s Bookshelf
- Expand Your Horizons: Bowie’s list reminds us that great music often comes from engaging with ideas outside of music. Whether it’s philosophy, fiction, or history, exploring new fields can deepen your creativity.
- Create Stories: Many of Bowie’s songs are miniature narratives. Books like Bulgakov’s The Master and Margarita and Orwell’s 1984 inspired him to weave complex tales into his lyrics.
- Find Your Voice: Just as Bowie morphed through personas, you can experiment with styles, sounds, and themes to discover your authentic artistic voice.
- Stay Curious: Bowie’s reading list spans continents, centuries, and cultures. As a musician, keeping your curiosity alive will ensure your art remains dynamic and innovative.
Conclusion: Literary Inspiration for Your Musical Journey
David Bowie’s Top 100 Books is more than a reading list—it’s a roadmap to a creative mindset. For musicians, it’s a powerful reminder that storytelling, imagination, and intellectual exploration are at the heart of all great art. Whether you’re seeking new lyrical ideas, fresh thematic material, or simply a dose of inspiration, Bowie’s literary legacy offers endless possibilities.
So, pick up one of his favorite books, and let your next song or project be shaped by the worlds that shaped Bowie. After all, as Bowie himself showed us, the intersection of words and music is where the magic happens.
Explore Bowie’s full list at the New York Public Library blog.
