Meaning of "Dream on" by Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox

"Dream On" is a song that delves into the themes of introspection, personal growth, and the passage of time. The opening lines, "Every time I look in the mirror, all these lines on my face getting clearer," suggest the singer's reflection on their own aging and the recognition that the past is gone, just like the transition from dusk to dawn. The lyrics then remind us that everyone has their own struggles and obstacles to overcome, symbolized by the phrase, "everybody's got their dues to pay." The following lines, "Yeah I know nobody knows, where it comes or where it goes, I know it's everybody's sin, you got to lose to know how to win," seem to allude to the uncertainties and vicissitudes of life. It is through experiencing loss and failure that we gain the wisdom to succeed.

The second verse of the song further explores the journey of life and the lessons learned along the way. The references to "half my life's in books, written pages," indicate the singer's accumulation of knowledge and wisdom through reading and learning from both foolish and wise individuals. This verse emphasizes that these lessons have led to personal growth, as indicated by the line, "Lived and learned from fools and from sages." The singer acknowledges that all their feelings ultimately come down to someone or something, implying that the experiences and relationships they have encountered have influenced their emotions and perspectives.

The chorus of the song encourages listeners to sing, symbolizing the act of expressing oneself and finding solace in music. The repetition of the phrase "sing for the years" suggests that music has the power to transcend time and evoke both laughter and tears. The mention of the "good Lord" potentially represents the idea of a higher power or fate that may intervene in one's life, reminding them to appreciate the present moment and seize opportunities before they are gone.

Overall, "Dream On" emphasizes the passage of time, the struggles and dues that everyone has to pay, the importance of learning from both positive and negative experiences, and the value of dreaming and perseverance in achieving one's goals.