It's Only A Paper Moon
Larry McKenna Lyrics

Larry McKenna's song, "It's Only A Paper Moon," is a piece about the power of belief and love. The song reflects on the idea that our lives can be like a circus, filled with illusions and make-believes that we create to feel better. The lyrics are anchored in the idea that even though the world can be fake and phony, we can still find meaning in it if we have someone who believes in us. The opening lines of the song, "say it's only a paper moon, sailing over a cardboard sea," is a nod to the backdrop of the musicals of the time in which an actor would sit in front of a painted scenery that would be moved to create the illusion that they are in a different place.

The second verse, "yes, it's only a canvas sky, hanging over a muslin tree," again reinforces this idea of make-believe. McKenna suggests that our beliefs in things that aren’t real can be incredibly powerful. The refrain, "it wouldn't be make-believe if you believed in me," is a declaration of hope that the listener will see beyond the façade and believe in something real.

The bridge takes a slightly different turn as McKenna reflects on the emptiness of the world without the person he loves. The honky-tonk parade, the melody played in a penny arcade, and the Barnum and Bailey world are all symbols of the hollowness and superficiality of life when love is lacking. The song ends on a powerful note of vulnerability and honesty, "It's phony it's plain to see, how happy I would be if you believed in me." The piece offers listeners an emotional journey that reflects on the power of love and the importance of believing in oneself and others.