Things That Stop You Dreaming

Passenger's song 'Things That Stop You Dreaming' is a poignant exploration of the human condition, focusing on the themes of acceptance and resilience. The lyrics paint a picture of a person who, despite lacking material wealth and facing various hardships, finds solace in the simple, yet profound aspects of life. The opening lines, 'I’ve got no money in my hands or my coat or my pocket / Won’t get to space 'cause I haven’t got a rocket,' set the tone for the song, highlighting the singer's lack of conventional success. However, the subsequent lines, 'But I’ve air in my lungs / Eyes in my sockets / And a heart that beats,' emphasize the intrinsic value of life itself, suggesting that the mere act of living is a form of wealth.

The chorus, 'Well if you can’t get what you love / You learn to love the things you’ve got,' serves as a mantra for acceptance. It speaks to the idea that life often doesn't go as planned, and in those moments, one must find contentment in what they have. This sentiment is further reinforced with the lines, 'If you can’t be what you want / You learn to be the things you’re not,' suggesting a form of adaptive resilience. The phrase 'You learn to need the things that stop you dreaming' is particularly striking, as it implies that sometimes, the very things that hold us back can also teach us valuable lessons about contentment and acceptance.

The song also delves into the idea of authenticity and honesty. Lines like 'And my liver may be fucked but my heart is honest / And my word is true' highlight the importance of staying true to oneself, even when faced with personal flaws and societal pressures. The imagery of 'eyes shine bright like a sky full of comets' evokes a sense of wonder and beauty, suggesting that even in the midst of life's challenges, there are moments of brilliance and joy. Passenger's lyrical style, characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth, makes 'Things That Stop You Dreaming' a relatable and inspiring anthem for anyone navigating the complexities of life.