When I Dream

Carol Kidd's 'When I Dream' is a poignant exploration of longing and unfulfilled desires. The song's lyrics paint a picture of a life filled with material wealth and social opportunities, yet devoid of true emotional connection. The narrator speaks of grandiose possibilities—building mansions, flying to Paris, and even traveling to the Moon—highlighting the contrast between external success and internal emptiness. Despite having the means to achieve almost anything, the narrator feels a profound sense of loneliness, questioning why they live their life alone with 'nothing at all.'

The recurring refrain, 'But when I dream, I dream of you,' serves as the emotional core of the song. It reveals that, despite all the material and social accomplishments, the narrator's deepest desire is for a meaningful relationship. This dream of love and connection is something that money and status cannot buy, making it all the more precious and elusive. The repetition of 'Maybe someday you will come true' underscores a sense of hope and longing, suggesting that the dream of love is what sustains the narrator through their otherwise empty existence.

Carol Kidd's delivery of the song adds another layer of depth. Known for her emotive vocal style, Kidd brings a sense of vulnerability and sincerity to the lyrics. Her performance makes the listener feel the weight of the narrator's loneliness and the intensity of their dreams. The song becomes a universal anthem for anyone who has ever felt that their life is missing something essential, despite outward appearances of success. It speaks to the human condition, where love and connection are often the most sought-after yet elusive treasures.