Meaning of "Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean" by Paul Simon

The lyrics in "Once Upon a Time There Was an Ocean" delve into the idea of transformation and change in life. The metaphor of the ocean becoming a mountain range signifies a dramatic shift, highlighting how certain things may look the same on the surface, but internally everything has evolved. The narrator's desire to escape their mundane existence, symbolized by a dead-end job and a bleak view outside the window, reflects a longing for something more fulfilling and meaningful. The references to a lottery ticket represent the hope for a sudden change in circumstances, allowing the narrator to bury their past struggles and start anew. The recurring themes of home and family suggest a sense of nostalgia and longing for a place where they belong, even as they distance themselves from it. Overall, the song captures the complexities of seeking change while grappling with the past, ultimately yearning for renewal and a fresh start.