Now that the spooky season is coming to an end, there is a short gap between now and one of the most loved holidays of the year, Christmas. This gap includes the transition from summer to winter, the short season of autumn. The weather is cooler, the days are shorter, the leaves are turning, and the music changes into something more cozy, reflective, and warm–just like how “Dreams” by the Cranberries does.
“Dreams” is featured on the Cranberries’ debut album in 1992, “Everyone Else is Doing It, So Why Can’t We?” It is one of the most iconic songs from the band, and even to this day, a song that comes back annually during this time of year. It captures a unique blend of alternative rock and dream pop while showcasing ethereal vocals by the lead singer, Dolores O’Riordan. This song is a love song with lyrics that convey excitement and intensity of a new relationship with a lively, airy sound paired along with it.
Verse 1
“Oh, my life is changing everyday
In every possible way
And oh, my dreams
It’s never quite as it seems
Never quite as it seems”
The very first verse already paints a vivid picture of transformation and new beginnings as O’Riordan expresses wonder and vulnerability through her voice. However, this excitement is accompanied by the blurred gap between her dreams and reality as she starts to dive deep into her new and thrilling emotions.
Pre-Chorus
“I know I’ve felt like this before
But now I’m feelin’ it even more
Because it came from you”
The chorus starts to rise from its enticing beginning to the climax of the song, symbolizing the increasing adrenaline of her falling deeper and deeper in love with her significant other. As the melody proceeds to intensify, the instruments and the emotions continue to as well. The overwhelming power of love that is presented in just this verse is evident, and this love starts to control her mind and her emotions, revisiting the blurred gap of dreams and reality.
Chorus
“And now I tell you openly
You have my heart, so don’t hurt me
You’re what I couldn’t find”
The similar vulnerability and honesty that O’Riordan expresses earlier in the song is shown again, but now she has given herself to her significant other completely and happily. She highlights how her newfound love has brought her a need in her life that she never knew she ever needed. She has never felt so whole and full before, which is a feeling that she has been chasing for her entire life.
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All the lines in this three minute song reflect the discovery of a love that feels rare and genuine, making her feel seen and complete. The thrill of discovering something entirely new, whether it’s love, self-awareness, or life is something truly special and one-of-a-kind. Unexpected changes aren’t always negative, as they can bring surprises that one could never realize they ever needed. Accepting these changes with open arms will only lead to more surprises that could lead to even more memorable experiences in the future.
