"Donald and Lydia" by John Prine tells the story of two lonely individuals, Lydia and Donald, in a small town. Lydia, a fat girl, hides her thoughts and finds solace in romance magazines. Donald, who is often judged by strangers, lives in his own head and daydreams about romantic scenes. The two find comfort in their dreams and eventually make love, but their connection remains distant.

Meaning of "Donald And Lydia" by John Prine

"Donald and Lydia" explores the theme of loneliness and escapism. Both characters, Lydia and Donald, are outsiders in their own ways. Lydia hides her thoughts and seeks solace in her own fantasies. Donald is isolated by strangers' judgments and finds refuge in daydreaming. The lyrics suggest that dreaming is a natural escape from reality, much like a baby's first breath or the love hidden deep in one's heart. However, the reality of their lives remains unchanged, and their connection, though physical, lacks emotional depth. The song hints at the emptiness and longing that can exist even in moments of physical intimacy. The line "mostly they made love ten miles away" highlights the distance and disconnect between the two characters. Overall, "Donald and Lydia" explores the bittersweet nature of escaping reality through dreams and the yearning for a deeper connection.