Daydream

Lily Meola's 'Daydream' is a poignant anthem that speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever had a dream they've been hesitant to pursue. The song begins with a nostalgic look back at childhood, a time when imagination knew no bounds and dreams were as limitless as the games of astronauts and rock stars played in the backyard. Meola captures the essence of youthful innocence and the unfiltered ambition that comes before the weight of societal expectations begins to press down.

As the song progresses, it addresses the transition into adulthood, where dreams are often set aside for more 'realistic' pursuits. The lyrics 'Then suddenly you're eighteen / Go to college for your plan b' reflect the pressure to conform to a safer path, one that is less about passion and more about practicality. The mention of 'living for weekends and whiskey' suggests a life half-lived, where true desires are dulled by routine and temporary escapes. Meola's chorus is a powerful call to action, urging listeners not to abandon their 'daydreams' for the sake of security or fear of failure. The message is clear: dreams should be big enough to be intimidating, for it is in the pursuit of what makes us nervous that we find true fulfillment.

The song also touches on the theme of regret, exemplified by the character who is 'Thirty-one waiting tables / She has the voice of an angel' but only sings in private. This verse serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences of not pursuing one's passion. Meola encourages her audience to embrace the possibility of failure as a necessary step towards success, encapsulated in the line 'Gotta fall for a minute before you can fly.' Ultimately, 'Daydream' is a reminder that life is for living, not just dreaming, and that the pursuit of our deepest aspirations is not only worthwhile but essential.