Meaning of "The Gunner's Dream" by Pink Floyd

"The Gunner's Dream" is a poignant and introspective song that explores the themes of war, peace, and the longing for a better world. The lyrics draw the listener into the mind of a soldier, floating between memories and dreams. The first verse sets the stage of a soldier's funeral, as he says goodbye to loved ones. The image of the silver in her hair and the tolling bell evoke a sense of loss and sorrow.

The song then shifts to the dream itself, where the soldier envisions a place where one has a place to stay and enough to eat. This dream world is characterized by safety, where old heroes can walk down the street without fear, and one can freely express doubts and fears. This stands in stark contrast to the soldier's reality, where there is constant danger and the sound of war can be heard at any moment.

The lyrics also touch upon themes of justice and the absence of violence. In this dream world, no one kills children anymore, emphasizing the devastating impact of war on innocent lives. The repetition of the line "no one kills the children anymore" emphasizes the importance and urgency of ending violence.

The final verse brings the listener back to the reality of war, as the mention of a gunner sleeping in a foreign field suggests that the soldier's dream will remain unrealized. The line "What's done is done, we cannot just write off his final scene" suggests a reflection on the futility of war and the inability to undo the past.

Overall, "The Gunner's Dream" is a powerful song that resonates with the universal desire for peace and a better world. It juxtaposes the harsh realities of war with the dream of a more just and peaceful society.