The lyrics describe a scene of a child groom in a bedroom, surrounded by souvenirs from Pennsylvania and London Tower, hinting at a tumultuous and potentially toxic relationship. The song warns about the consequences of wishes and desires, urging caution in how far one goes to achieve them.

Meaning of "Pennsylvania" by Jars Of Clay

The lyrics of "Pennsylvania" by Jars Of Clay paint a vivid picture of a relationship filled with pain, illusions, and unfulfilled dreams. The mention of a child groom implies a sense of innocence lost and a feeling of being trapped in a situation that was entered into prematurely. The souvenirs from hell and Pennsylvania symbolize the remnants of past experiences that haunt the present. The advice to "look but don't touch, hurt but don't cry, break out of these cages but never fly" reflects the sense of being stuck in a cycle of wanting freedom but being unable to truly break free. The cautionary message about being careful what one wishes for serves as a reminder that chasing after desires without considering the consequences can lead to unexpected outcomes. The imagery of parachutes filling the sky suggests an opportunity for escape or release from the constraints that bind the individual, but the reluctance to fly implies a fear of taking the leap into the unknown. The final lines about planting dreams by the lakeside and leaving the past behind hint at a sense of hope for a new beginning, while acknowledging the inevitability of change and growth.