Sleeping To Dream

Jason Mraz's 'Sleeping To Dream' is a poignant exploration of longing and the solace found in dreams. The song captures the essence of yearning for a loved one who is physically absent, and the emotional toll it takes on the narrator. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who finds temporary comfort in dreams, where they can be close to their beloved, even if only in their imagination. This dreamscape becomes a refuge from the harsh reality of separation, a place where the narrator can momentarily escape their loneliness.

The metaphor of 'counting sheep' and each one turning to 'ashes' symbolizes the fleeting nature of dreams and the inevitable return to reality. The imagery of waking up in 'ditches' after dreaming of 'riches' in the form of the loved one's eyes, lips, and hair, further emphasizes the stark contrast between the dream world and the real world. This juxtaposition highlights the depth of the narrator's longing and the pain of waking up to a world where their loved one is not present.

The recurring line, 'I'm sleeping to dream about you,' underscores the narrator's desperation and exhaustion from living without their loved one. The song serves as a 'little lullaby' to soothe the narrator's heartache, a way to cope with the emotional strain of separation. Mraz's soulful delivery and the gentle melody enhance the song's emotional impact, making it a heartfelt anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the ache of missing someone dear. The song beautifully captures the universal experience of finding solace in dreams when reality becomes too painful to bear.