Telegram Sam
Bauhaus Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You-you're my main man
Golden nose slim
I know
I know where you been
P-p-purple pie pete
Girls melt in the heat
Telegram Sam
You're my main man
You're my main man
I said Bobby's alright
He's a natural born poet
He's just outta sight
I say Jungle face Jake
I said make no mistake about Jungle face Jake
Telegram Sam
You're my main man
You're my main man
I said Bobby's alright
He's a natural born poet
He's just outta sight
I said automatic shoes
Give me 3-D vision
And the California blues
Telegram Sam
You're my main man
You're my main man
You're my main man
You're my main man
Telegram Sam
You're my main man!
The lyrics to Bauhaus's "Telegram Sam" are a curious mix of seemingly unrelated phrases and names, but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that they are intended to showcase a series of eccentric and charismatic characters. The titular Telegram Sam could be interpreted as the singer's hero or a figure of admiration, as he is referred to several times as the "main man." The lines "Golden nose slim, I know where you been" imply that Sam is a savvy and well-connected person, possibly one who travels frequently or has insider knowledge.
The following verse introduces a new character, Purple Pie Pete, whose "lips are like lightning" - a metaphor for his magnetic charm and charisma. This description is followed by the intriguing statement "Girls melt in the heat," suggesting that Pete has a way with women that is both intense and passionate. The chorus repeats the phrase "You're my main man" twice, reinforcing the sense of admiration and loyalty.
The later verses introduce additional characters such as Bobby, a "natural born poet" who is "just outta sight," and Jungle Face Jake, who is emphasized as someone to "make no mistake about." Overall, the lyrics to "Telegram Sam" appear to celebrate eccentricity, charisma, and a knack for standing out from the crowd.
Line by Line Meaning
Telegram Sam
Referring to the subject of the song, a person known as Telegram Sam
You-you're my main man
Acknowledging Telegram Sam as the most important person in the singer's life
Golden nose slim
Describing a person with a thin, golden nose
I know
I know where you been
Acknowledging the artist's familiarity with Telegram Sam's location and/or activities
P-p-purple pie pete
His lips are like lightning
Girls melt in the heat
Describing a person named Purple Pie Pete, who is charismatic and attractive to women
I said Bobby's alright
He's a natural born poet
He's just outta sight
Complimenting a person named Bobby for his poetic talent and overall greatness
I say Jungle face Jake
I said make no mistake about Jungle face Jake
Referring to a person named Jungle face Jake and emphasizing the importance of not underestimating him
I said automatic shoes
Give me 3-D vision
And the California blues
Discussing the benefits of wearing 'automatic' shoes, which apparently give the wearer improved vision and an appreciation for California culture
Telegram Sam
You're my main man
Reiterating that Telegram Sam is the most important person to the artist
You're my main man
You're my main man
You're my main man
You're my main man
Repeating the sentiment that Telegram Sam is the artist's primary focus and affection
Telegram Sam
You're my main man!
Concluding the song by emphatically declaring that Telegram Sam is the most significant person to the singer
Lyrics © Spirit Music Group
Written by: Marc Bolan
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Fred Lombard
In 1983, Bauhaus was the greatest band on Earth. Such a shame they broke up. And yes, I saw them live again in 1999, but still. Never the same.
At Zero
Seem them ... minus Daniel, but it was worth it.... To hear one of the most unrated Bass Players of all time.. Pete apparently went to the hospital afterwards... For this Forever Death Rocker kid.. epic
Gerald Cummiskey
Saw in 1883 night before Bowie Murray field outsiding
Dale Amaral
One of my first albums as a teen was T- Rex. Electric Warrior. Telegram Sam was one of my favorites, Then l heard Bauhaus version, blew me away.
rebeccah b
legend has it peter murphy is still stuck between those walls
Dan Plocinski
lol.
Alan Harvey
He gets out from time to time to do gigs, press conferences and stuff.
TheVictrolaLady
@beccaaxbee, hahaha 😆 😂 🤣 that's hilarious! Good one. 😂
Sam Animation
You know what heard about rumours?... 🤔
WhirledPeas
July 4 2023 and Telegram Sam popped into my head. How could I forgotten about this goodness?