Every Man Must Have a Dream

The Righteous Brothers' song 'Every Man Must Have a Dream' delves into the universal human experience of longing and the essential elements that make up our lives. The lyrics emphasize that every person needs a dream, a vision that propels them forward. This dream is likened to various fundamental aspects of life, such as scenes in a play, the start of a child's life, and the love shared between lovers. These metaphors highlight the importance of having aspirations and the emotional connections that give life meaning.

The song also touches on the inevitability of certain experiences, such as heartbreak and the end of roads, suggesting that these are natural parts of the human journey. The line 'Every morning has its day' implies that every beginning has its own time to shine, while 'Great pretenders must pretend' speaks to the roles people play in life, often masking their true selves. The recurring theme of being left 'in a ruin in the same old way' suggests a cycle of disappointment and unfulfilled dreams, despite the essential elements being present.

The personal reflection in the lyrics, 'I used to be a dreamer, but now I'm just a man,' reveals a sense of lost idealism and a shift from youthful dreams to the harsh realities of adulthood. The singer's acknowledgment that 'everything you need is free when the one you need is me' underscores the idea that true fulfillment comes from meaningful relationships rather than material possessions. The song concludes with a poignant note of seeing 'her today,' hinting at a past love or a significant person who embodies the dream that once was.