The lyrics describe the pain of heartbreak and the inability to stop loving someone even when the relationship is over. The idea is that as long as they continue to dream, think, and love that person, they won't be able to move on.

Meaning of "When I Stop Dreaming" by George Jones & Tammy Wynette

The lyrics of "When I Stop Dreaming" delve deep into the emotional turmoil of heartbreak and unrequited love. The verses portray the intense sadness and desperation felt when someone you love no longer loves you in return. The imagery of feeling like a flower unwanted in spring, neglected and withering away, captures the anguish of being left behind. The song also speaks to the impossibility of simply forgetting or moving on from a past love, as much as one may try. The metaphor of teaching flowers to bloom in the snow or raindrops to return to the clouds emphasizes the futility of trying to erase memories and feelings. Ultimately, the lyrics express the timeless truth that love can be all-consuming and enduring, refusing to fade even when the relationship has ended.