Song Meaning

Steve Forbert's "What It Is A Dream" isn't just a song; it's a seasoned traveler's wry observation on the human condition. The repetitive structure and deceptively simple lyrics belie a deeper meditation on time, effort, and the acceptance of life's inherent challenges. The phrase 'What it is' functions almost like a Zen koan, prompting reflection rather than delivering concrete answers. Is it a 'trip'? A 'spin'? A 'shot'? Forbert suggests it's all of these things – a journey, a cycle, a chance – but ultimately, it’s a dream, a long, unfolding experience shaped by our perceptions. The repeated caveat, 'if you don't mind some rain, and the blood, sweat, and tears,' isn't a warning as much as a prerequisite. It acknowledges the inevitable hardships and sacrifices that accompany any meaningful pursuit. This isn’t naive optimism; it's a pragmatic acceptance that struggle is part of the deal. The 'dream' isn't some fantastical escape, but rather the commitment to navigating reality, flaws and all. It’s a recognition that the value lies not in avoiding the 'rain' but in enduring it. The bridge offers a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the cyclical verses. 'There's the sunset, baby, bright stars climb' evokes a sense of fleeting beauty and the passage of time. The subsequent line, 'What goes up, they say, will fall in time,' is a stark reminder of impermanence. Forbert doesn't shy away from life's hard truths; instead, he integrates them into the fabric of the dream itself. The final verse encapsulates this sentiment: 'Let the young have the youth, let the old have the rest.' It's a graceful acknowledgement of different stages of life, each with its own unique experiences and perspectives. In essence, "What It Is A Dream" suggests that the 'dream' is not a passive state but an active engagement with the totality of existence, embracing both its beauty and its inevitable sorrows.