Song vs. Song 11: "Space Oddity" vs. "Rocket Man"

I understand why this is a comparison, but once again, it's a stacked deck. One is an original creation, and the other is a response to an original. 'Space Oddity' is why Bowie had a career. Of course his original version is absolutely hilarious because he looks like such a dork. Bowie's whole career is predicated on being cool, which to me seems kind of desperate, and makes me dislike him even more. Elton John was never cool, never even tried, which I admire. Elton's career is inextricably tied to Bernie Taupin, so when Bernie was writing well, they came up with amazing songs. 'Rocket Man' is not one of them. Bowie was much more experimental, but he was extremely hit and miss. My favorite Bowie record is 'Hunky Dory', which is an early one. Similarly, I think Elton John's self titled album in 1970 is his best album. In terms of longevity, I think Elton wins, because of 'This Train Don't Stop There Anymore'. Bowie's last best song was 'I'm afraid of Americans', and it's a collaboration. Who's the better person? Probably Elton. Bowie had statutory rape charges. He also just seems like an arrogant asshole. Not that Elton doesn't say stupid things. Bowie is a much better actor. When Elton John is in a movie, he's Elton John. If I had to pick a favorite song of all time, and not just the best Elton song, it's probably 'Don't let the sun go down on me'. My favorite Bowie song is 'Oh You Pretty Things'. So 'Space Oddity' may be a better song, but he loses in a comparison of who's a better artist.