California Dreaming
Roberto Justus Lyrics
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And the sky is grey
I've been for a walk
On a winter's day
I'd be safe and warm
If I was in L.A
California Dreamin'
Stopped into a church
I passed along the way
Well
I got down on my knees
And I began to pray
You know the preacher
Likes the cold
He knows I'm gonna stay
California Dreamin'
On such a winter's day
All the leaves are brown
And the sky is grey
I've been for a walk
On a winter's day
If I didn't tell her
I could leave today
California Dreamin'
On such a winter's day
The lyrics to Roberto Justus's song California Dreaming seem to be a nostalgic description of the hardships faced in a winter day in the singer's current location, contrasted with the desire to be in California, particularly in Los Angeles, which would provide ultimate comfort and a respite from the cold weather. The singer references the classic imagery of "all the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray," a clear reference to the fall foliage throughout Southern California, as well as the overall warm weather that the state is known for year-round. The singer finds solace in prayer, but ultimately concludes that a journey to California would be his ultimate escape.
The opening lines of the song paint a picture of a winter day marked by dreary weather and a desolate atmosphere, leading the singer to reminisce on his ideal California escape. The second verse to the song refers to a church that the singer stops in along the way, where he finds comfort in prayer. Despite the prevalence of the cold weather, the preacher apparently prefers it and understands the singer's intention to leave, utilizing this anecdote to illustrate a sense of longing and desire to distance oneself from a challenging situation, but ultimately seeking warmth and comfort elsewhere. The final verse of the song confirms the singer's ideation of literally leaving today to pursue their California dream.
Line by Line Meaning
All the leaves are brown
The leaves have changed color and died, indicating the arrival of winter.
And the sky is grey
The sky is overcast and lacking in color, a common occurrence during winter.
I've been for a walk
I have gone for a leisurely stroll outside.
On a winter's day
During the season of winter when the weather is cold and snowy.
I'd be safe and warm
If I resided in Los Angeles, a city with a warmer climate, I would feel comfortable and cozy.
If I was in L.A
If I were in Los Angeles, a city in California known for its warm, sunny climate and relaxed lifestyle.
California Dreamin'
As a resident or visitor to California, I am seeking an idyllic, dreamlike experience.
On such a winter's day
Even during the winter season, I am still imagining myself in California.
Stopped into a church
I paused my walk and entered a place of worship.
I passed along the way
I encountered this church during my travels.
Well
An expression indicating a change of topic or thought.
I got down on my knees
I knelt down as a sign of respect and humility.
And I began to pray
I spoke to a higher power in a spiritual and introspective manner.
You know the preacher
It is widely known that the religious leader of this church likes cold weather.
Likes the cold
This preacher prefers colder temperatures over a warmer climate.
He knows I'm gonna stay
The preacher is aware of my presence and expects me to stay in this area.
If I didn't tell her
If I did not inform my romantic partner about my desire to visit California.
I could leave today
I would be able to depart for California immediately.
California Dreamin'
As or longing to be in California, I envision the state as a paradise.
On such a winter's day
During the winter season, I still maintain my desire to be in California.
Contributed by Alyssa H. Suggest a correction in the comments below.