Meaning of "Dreams" by Gabrielle Aplin

The lyrics of "Dreams" explore the complexities of a relationship where one person desires freedom while the other wants to be a part of their partner's dreams. The line "there you go again you say you want your freedom" suggests that the other person feels the need to break free from the relationship, highlighting their desire for independence. The narrator, acknowledging this, accepts that it is natural for the other person to want to follow their own path and not be restricted. However, they long to be a part of the other person's dreams, wanting to "wrap around your dreams." This line conveys a sense of yearning, expressing the narrator's desire to be intimately connected to their partner's aspirations and to support them.

The lyrics also touch upon the themes of loneliness and loss. The phrases "the sound of your loneliness" and "dreams of loneliness" suggest that both the narrator and the other person feel a sense of emptiness when they are apart or when they reflect on what was lost in the relationship. The mention of the "stillness of remembering" emphasizes the weight of what was once had and what has been lost, evoking feelings of nostalgia and longing.

Furthermore, the chorus of the song emphasizes the transitory nature of relationships. The line "thunder only happens when it's raining" suggests that dramatic or significant events, like thunder, only occur during difficult times. Similarly, the line "players only love you when they're playing" implies that some people only show affection or interest when it suits their own agenda. This exposes the nature of fleeting relationships, where people come and go. However, the rain is also depicted as a cleansing force, as "when the rain washes you clean you know." This line suggests that the rain metaphorically washes away the negative emotions and helps the individuals find clarity.

In summary, "Dreams" reflects on the complex dynamics of a relationship where one person desires freedom and the other longs to be a part of their partner's dreams. It explores themes of loneliness, loss, transitory relationships, and the cleansing power of rain.