Meaning of "Picture Postcards From L.A." by Joshua Kadison

"Picture Postcards From L.A." tells the story of Rachel, a waitress who dreams of making it big in Los Angeles. The narrator, who is infatuated with Rachel, supports her aspirations and eagerly awaits postcards from L.A. as a symbol of her success. The lyrics highlight the tension between dreams and reality and the sacrifices one must make to pursue their goals. Rachel's repeated promises to leave for L.A. suggest that she desires more than the small-town life represented by Eddie's bar. However, despite her dreams, she always remains, suggesting that she may be trapped by fear, complacency, or external circumstances. The absence of postcards conveys Rachel's inability to break free from her current situation and fulfill her ambitions. Furthermore, the ambiguous responses of the narrator when asked about Rachel's beauty and singing ability reflect his uncertainty and helplessness in understanding her desires. The song suggests that Rachel's dreams might be rooted in a longing for validation, recognition, and a larger life, but she is ultimately unable to overcome the barriers that keep her from pursuing them. It highlights the complexity of pursuing dreams and the challenges individuals face in breaking free from familiar confines.