Meaning of "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" by Low

The lyrics of "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" delve into the painful dichotomy between dreams and reality, highlighting the deep longing and disappointment experienced by the protagonist. In their dream, they find solace in the embrace of someone who loves them, offering a comforting respite from their otherwise lonely existence. However, the dream is merely a false alarm, and upon waking, they are confronted with the stark emptiness that permeates their life. The repetition of "no hope, no harm" suggests a resignation to the fact that this dream, like countless others, is bound to lead to disappointment.

The lyrics raise poignant questions about the passage of time and the uncertainty of finding genuine love. The lines "tell me how long before the last one? / And tell me how long before the right one?" reveal the protagonist's yearning for some indication of when their search for true love will end. The repetition of the phrase "the story is old - I know, but it goes on" emphasizes the frustrating cycle of longing, hope, and disillusionment that characterizes their existence. Despite the familiarity of this story, they acknowledge that it continues to persist, suggesting both the universal nature of these emotions and the enduring pursuit of love even in the face of repeated letdowns.

The haunting repetition of "goes on" in the latter part of the lyrics serves as a reminder that life carries on despite the protagonist's feelings of emotional desolation. It highlights the resilience and perseverance required to navigate a world where dreams and reality often clash. The lyrics ultimately evoke profound melancholy and a yearning for connection, capturing the bittersweet essence of unrequited love and the never-ending search for someone who truly understands and loves us.