Small Town Dreamers
Lindy Bartlett
The Unyielding Spirit of Small Town Dreamers
Lindy Bartlett's song 'Small Town Dreamers' paints a vivid picture of a young girl growing up in a small town, filled with aspirations and dreams that extend far beyond her immediate surroundings. The lyrics describe her sitting by the highway, watching cars pass by, and spending time at the pool hall, absorbing the tales of old men who recount their adventures. These stories fuel her imagination and shape her dreams, making her yearn for a life beyond the confines of her small town.
The chorus emphasizes a poignant truth: small towns often cannot contain the ambitions of their dreamers. As these individuals grow up, they tend to leave in search of greater opportunities, and their successes are later celebrated in the local papers. This reflects a common narrative in many small communities, where the brightest and most ambitious often feel the need to move away to achieve their goals. However, the song also highlights a deeper sentiment—that no matter how far one goes or how much one achieves, the essence of 'home' remains an integral part of their dreams.
Bartlett's lyrics resonate with a universal theme of longing and belonging. The idea that 'you can't take the home out of dreams' suggests that our roots and early experiences continue to shape us, no matter where life takes us. This song captures the bittersweet reality of leaving home to chase dreams while acknowledging the enduring influence of one's origins. It speaks to the hearts of those who have left their small towns, carrying a piece of it with them wherever they go.