Meaning of "Over the Rainbow" by Anne Murray

The lyrics of "Over the Rainbow" by Anne Murray depict a longing for a utopian world beyond the struggles and hardships of reality. The image of a land over the rainbow symbolizes an unreachable paradise where dreams are realized and all troubles vanish. The mention of blue birds flying over the rainbow represents freedom and peace, contrasting with the singer's own inability to reach such a place. This yearning for escapism and a better, more idealized existence is a universal theme that resonates with many individuals who seek solace and hope in challenging times. The repeated question of "why, oh why can't I?" reflects a sense of frustration and resignation at the inability to attain this perfect world, highlighting the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled dreams. Overall, the lyrics evoke a sense of yearning for a better future and a desire to escape from the constraints of reality.