Buzzby
Leo Kottke Lyrics

The opening lines of Buzzby by Leo Kottke describe the singer, Buzzby, running up the street. This creates a sense of movement and urgency, hinting at a restless and perhaps chaotic state of mind. The mention of Bonanza Mango pruning the hedges suggests that someone is tending to the external aspects of Buzzby's life, possibly trying to maintain a semblance of order. However, the line about carbon monoxide flooding Buzzby's room introduces a toxic and harmful element, symbolizing the negative influences in his life that may be suffocating him.

The next stanza continues to explore the theme of carbon monoxide, now associated with a swinging front door and a gasoline engine. This suggests that Buzzby is allowing toxic elements into his life, willingly or inadvertently. The mention of indigestion as something that makes Buzzby grin adds an ironic twist. It implies that he may find some kind of twisted pleasure or satisfaction in embracing or ignoring the negative consequences of his actions.

The following lines introduce the idea of pictures jumping down off the wall, standing up, glimmering, and running through the halls. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for Buzzby's thoughts and memories coming to life and becoming active in his mind. However, they only dance when Buzzby calls, suggesting that he has some control over these thoughts, but perhaps not complete mastery. This could be indicative of a fragmented or somewhat chaotic thought process.

The final stanza presents a contrasting image of moon-swept lawns and palm tree groves, evoking a sense of tranquility and beauty. However, within Buzzby's room, the dog goes crazy. This juxtaposition suggests that even in calm surroundings, there is an underlying sense of chaos and unrest. The empty bedsprings cancel Buzzby's tune, implying a lack of harmony or fulfillment in his life. It suggests that despite the peaceful exterior, there is an emptiness or dissonance within Buzzby's world.

Overall, the lyrics of Buzzby by Leo Kottke convey a sense of a restless and turbulent state of mind. The use of imagery and metaphor helps to illustrate the inner struggles and contradictions that Buzzby experiences. It explores themes of toxic influences, fragmented thoughts, and a sense of emptiness, all contributing to a complex and multi-layered interpretation of the lyrics.