Meaning of "Sweet Jane" by Cowboy Junkies

The lyrics of "Sweet Jane" by Cowboy Junkies convey a sense of longing and yearning. The mention of anyone who has ever had a heart, played a part, or had a dream alludes to the universal human experiences of love, life, and ambition. The idea that anyone who has had these experiences would not turn around and break a heart or hate their own part suggests a sense of empathy and understanding. The repetition of the phrase "Sweet Jane" throughout the song represents the person or ideal that is longed for. It could be interpreted as a metaphorical figure who embodies the fulfillment of these desires. Waiting for Jimmy down in the alley and thinking of ways to get back home indicates a sense of longing and displacement. The mention of heavenly widened roses whispering when you smile creates an image of beauty and joy that is intertwined with the desire for Sweet Jane. Overall, the lyrics evoke a bittersweet sense of longing and the yearning for love, connection, and a feeling of being whole.