Meaning of "In Dreams" by Roy Orbison

"In Dreams" is a melancholic and poignant exploration of the power of dreams as a refuge and escape from reality. The candy-colored clown symbolizes the Sandman, a mythical figure associated with sleep and dreams. Its visits to the speaker's room each night suggest the intrusion of unconscious thoughts and desires. The sandman's ability to sprinkle stardust and reassure the speaker represents the comforting and therapeutic nature of dreams, providing solace and a temporary reprieve from life's troubles. The speaker's silent prayer reflects their longing and desire for a deeper connection with the person they dream about, emphasizing the intensity of their emotions and the significance of their dreams.

The lyrics vividly capture the joy and ecstasy of being with their loved one in dreams. The speaker expresses their companionship and intimacy, being able to walk and talk together, and feeling a sense of ownership and possession as they declare, "you're mine all the time." However, the dream sequence is cruelly disrupted by reality, symbolized by the dawn. The awakening brings a harsh realization that the person they long for is no longer present, leaving the speaker in a state of heartache and longing. The repetition of "I can't help it if I cry" highlights the speaker's vulnerability and inability to control their emotions, underscoring the deep impact of the loss.

The lyrics convey a sense of disappointment and bittersweet resignation, as the speaker acknowledges that the connection and love they experience only exist in the realm of dreams. The phrase "too bad it only seems, it only happens in my dreams" reflects a yearning for the dream world to merge with reality, but also a resignation to the fact that it is an unattainable wish. The final line, "in beautiful dreams," expresses the beauty and allure of dreams, serving as a final acknowledgment of their importance and enchantment in the speaker's life.

Overall, "In Dreams" explores the transformative and emotional power of dreams, highlighting their ability to provide temporary solace, fulfillment, and emotional connection. It conveys the yearning for a love that is out of reach, capturing the complex emotions of longing, hope, disappointment, and acceptance.