In Dreams

Ben Howard's 'In Dreams' delves into the complexities and enigmas of life, both in the external world and within one's own mind. The song opens with the recurring line, 'Always a riddle in the world she said, always a riddle inside my head,' setting the tone for a contemplative journey. This line suggests a perpetual state of questioning and wonder, highlighting the human condition's inherent curiosity and confusion. The world is depicted as a vast, overwhelming place, filled with both beauty and chaos, where everything seems to conspire against the individual.

The chorus introduces a dreamlike state where the singer observes the universe's fundamental elements, 'See a violent crack of atoms where all light comes in.' This imagery evokes a sense of awe and the sublime, as if witnessing the birth of light and life itself. The dreams also reveal a darker side, where the singer admits to 'lain in sin,' suggesting a struggle with personal flaws and the desire for redemption. The reference to 'aesop's kin' as 'just a carcass of a man' further emphasizes feelings of isolation and existential dread, questioning the essence of humanity and the self.

In the final verses, the singer confronts loneliness and the passage of time, 'Kicking my heels and wondering how I've been here so long.' Despite the troubles faced, there is a sense of acceptance and grace in defeat, 'I may be troubled but I'm gracious in defeat.' This line encapsulates the resilience and humility required to navigate life's uncertainties. Ben Howard's introspective lyrics and haunting melodies create a poignant reflection on existence, dreams, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.