Meaning of "The Dream Before" by Laurie Anderson

The lyrics paint a picture of disillusionment and regret, with Hansel and Gretel representing individuals who have grown tired of their own narrative and the illusions they've built for themselves. Hansel's realization that he wasted his life on a false fairy tale legend while missing out on his true love serves as a metaphor for the way people can get caught up in societal expectations and narratives that may not align with their true desires and aspirations. The conversation about history being blown backwards into the future by a storm called progress reflects an existential struggle with the passage of time and the idea of progress itself. It suggests that as humanity moves forward, it may be leaving important aspects of the past behind, leading to a cycle of destruction and rebuilding without truly addressing the underlying issues. Overall, the lyrics explore themes of self-discovery, regret, and the complex nature of progress in society.