Meaning of "Something Real" by Indigo Girls

The lyrics of "Something Real" delve into themes of nostalgia, missed connections, and the yearning for authenticity in a world filled with superficiality and distractions. The mention of the sun on a funeral and the full moon in a midday sky sets a tone of juxtaposition, highlighting the unexpected and unusual aspects of life. The narrator reflects on past relationships, particularly one that may have ended abruptly or without resolution, as evidenced by the need to call the person's parents to get their number again. There is a sense of regret and longing for what could have been, represented by the imagery of "two marriages and three kids" juxtaposed with the narrator's own life "as slick as ice that finally hit the skids." This comparison underscores the idea of missed opportunities and paths not taken. The chorus, with its repetition of needing to "get back to something real," conveys a deep desire for authenticity and meaningful human connection in a world that often feels artificial and disconnected. The references to fresh boys playing football and bands practicing drills evoke a sense of simplicity and innocence, a stark contrast to the complexities of adult life. Overall, "Something Real" speaks to the universal experience of longing for deeper connections and the search for genuine, meaningful relationships amidst the noise and distractions of daily life.