Irene
The Honeycutters Lyrics

Last night I dreamed that we were back
The singer recalls a dream where they were with someone important.

down by the railroad tracks
The dream took place in a familiar location from the past.

smoking Marlboro cigarettes
The two smoked cigarettes and enjoyed each other's company.

we threw our shoes into the river
They engaged in playful and carefree behavior.

and our mothers called each other, wondering where the kids were
Their parents became worried when they couldn't find them.

'cause they woke up and we were gone
Their parents were surprised when they found out they had left.

we were running down the parkway singing some old gypsy song
They found joy in singing and running, feeling free from their worries.

Goodnight Irene, Goodnight Irene
A reference to an old folk song about a woman named Irene.

I swear this world ain't as sad as the papers make it seem
The singer doesn't agree with the negative portrayal of the world in the media.

and in the morning we'll all be fine
A message of hope for the future.

so if you're scared darling, put your little hand in mine
The singer offers comfort and support to someone who may be scared or uncertain.

All the grown ups standing in the other room
The singer was separate from the adults.

they were talking about money
The adults were discussing financial matters.

and what's happening on the news
The adults were also discussing current events.

but we were laughing about nothing
The singer and the other person found joy in the present moment.

we were sitting in the kitchen drinking rum
They relaxed with a drink in the kitchen.

and eating dandelion soup
They enjoyed a simple but tasty meal.

and it was true
Those moments of happiness and contentment were real.

we didn't give a damn that we could fill an ocean with the things we never knew
They didn't worry about what they didn't know or understand, they lived in the moment.

I was sleeping in the back of the bar
The singer was resting in a somewhat unusual place.

with my head on Mama's shoulder
The singer found comfort and security with their mother.

and my Elvis playing cards
A reference to playing cards with Elvis Presley on them.

All the old men
Other people were present in the same location as the singer.

they were smoking and drinking
The others were also relaxing or enjoying themselves.

the band was playing
Live music was being performed.

my daddy's singing
The singer's father was singing along to the music.