Meaning of "The State of Dreaming" by Marina And The Diamonds

"The State of Dreaming" is a song that explores the idea of escapism and the desire to live in a world of dreams. The lyrics depict the protagonist's dissatisfaction with their current reality and their longing for a better life. They see themselves as living in a dream, only truly alive in their sleep. The line "I would sell my sorry soul if I could have it all" suggests a desperate longing for success and material gain in exchange for sacrificing their true identity.

The repetition of the line "My life is a play" emphasizes the idea that the protagonist feels like they are merely playing a role in life, rather than living authentically. This can be interpreted as a reflection on society's expectations and pressures to conform. The mention of people in the town being cruel alludes to the antagonism and judgment the protagonist faces in their everyday life. This further fuels their desire to escape into the state of dreaming.

The lyrics also hint at a sense of fear and approaching mortality. The lines "If only you knew my dear, how I live my life in fear" and "how I know my time is near" suggest that the protagonist is aware of their own mortality and feels a sense of impending doom. This fear may stem from the realization that a life spent yearning for a dream state may ultimately be unfulfilling and unsustainable.

The overall meaning of the lyrics can be seen as a commentary on the pressures of society, the desire for escapism, and the consequences of living in a perpetual state of dreaming. Through the use of vivid imagery and introspective lyrics, Marina And The Diamonds convey a sense of longing, dissatisfaction, and impending uncertainty.