Meaning of "Longfellow Serenade" by Neil Diamond

"Longfellow Serenade" is a song by Neil Diamond that delves into themes of love, connection, and the power of words. The protagonist of the song is a dreamer who has grand plans to woo a lady through his poetic and romantic gestures. He sees himself as a lonely individual, using the power of words to create a magical experience for his desired partner.

The lyrics paint a picture of the dreamer's anticipation and yearning for a night filled with affection and companionship. He believes that he and the lady are kindred spirits, both feeling the weight of their loneliness. The stolen kiss mentioned in the song implies a sense of spontaneity and secrecy, adding a sense of excitement and intrigue to the encounter.

The dreamer's love for the lady is described as profound, emphasizing that his affection goes beyond mere words. He sees himself as someone who loves her like no one else before, likely attributing this to his romantic nature and ability to express himself through poetry.

The chorus, inviting the lady to come along for a ride and promising to make her dreams come true, symbolizes the dreamer's desire to provide happiness and fulfillment in their relationship. The idea of weaving a "web of rhyme" and leaving behind the constraints of time reinforces the idea of creating a timeless and enchanting experience.

The title of the song, "Longfellow Serenade," references the renowned American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Longfellow was well-known for his romantic and lyrical poetry, often exploring themes of love and longing. By invoking Longfellow, the song suggests that the dreamer sees himself as a modern-day poet, using his words to serenade and captivate the lady he desires.

Overall, "Longfellow Serenade" delves into the power of romantic gestures, the yearning for connection, and the ability of words to create a magical experience. It portrays the dreamer as a romantic idealist who believes in the transformative power of love and poetry.