Return After a Long Dream (Da Meng Gui Li)

Chris Lee's "Return After a Long Dream (Da Meng Gui Li)" is a poetic exploration of nostalgia, longing, and the passage of time. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a dreamlike state where the past and present intertwine. The imagery of "blue lakes" and "tides of the sea" evokes a sense of timelessness, suggesting that memories are like reflections on water—ever-changing yet constant. The recurring theme of dreams symbolizes a desire to reconnect with a past that feels both distant and intimately familiar.

The song delves into the bittersweet nature of memories, describing them as "bitter memories hiding in the seams of the heart." This metaphor highlights the complexity of reminiscing, where joy and sorrow coexist. The lyrics also mention "a new house, a small window, a little light," symbolizing hope and new beginnings amidst the shadows of the past. The act of "whispering breaths like riddles by the needle's edge" suggests a delicate balance between holding onto memories and moving forward.

Throughout the song, there is a yearning to "find you," a metaphor for seeking closure or reconnection with a significant person or place. The lyrics express a determination to "return to the old hometown," wearing "old clothes but with eyes shining bright," signifying resilience and growth. The imagery of "holding a small wind chime in the sea of people" and "finally hearing the wind say it knows where you are" conveys a sense of hope and the belief that, despite life's uncertainties, one can find their way back to what truly matters.