Meaning of "When I'm Thinking About You" by The Sundays

The lyrics of "When I'm Thinking About You" by The Sundays portray a dream-like state where the narrator yearns to remain. The song begins with vivid imagery of rooftops and a plane in the sky, setting the scene for a journey through the narrator's mind. The beat of a bass drum and passing cars create a sense of movement and rhythm, while the mention of a bridge transitioning from darkness to light suggests a shift in emotions.

The following line, "A river of raincoats and a forest of faces," depicts a crowded and bustling scene, where the narrator feels a sense of anonymity and detachment. This feeling is further emphasized when the row of houses returns an "empty stare," reflecting a lack of connection or meaningful engagement with the outside world. In this dream-like state, the narrator wishes to prolong the daydream, suggesting a desire to escape from reality and immerse themselves in their thoughts.

The chorus reveals that the narrator's thoughts revolve around a specific person, as they express a hope to never wake from the dream when thinking about this individual. The repetition of this sentiment reinforces the importance of this person in the narrator's life and the joy they bring when they are the subject of their thoughts.

The song continues with a shift in tone, as it describes a sudden hailstorm melting into rain, symbolizing the fleeting nature of happiness and the transience of positive emotions. The request to "sing me a rainbow" reflects a longing for brightness and positivity, contrasting with the traffic snarls below, suggesting the chaos of everyday life.

The lyrics then touch on the idea that often when searching for pleasure, one finds pain, highlighting the inherent challenges and disappointments that come with seeking fulfillment. However, the song suggests that when one is not trying too hard and simply coasting along, it becomes possible to find contentment and appreciate one's current state.

In the final lines of the song, the narrator expresses a reluctance to stop thinking about the person they hold dear, indicating a desire to continue living in the dream-like state where thoughts of this person can bring them happiness.