Dreamin'
William Becton & Friends Lyrics
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And the sky is gray
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 pretend to pray
You know the preacher likes the cold
He knows I'm gonna stay
California dreamin'
On such a winter's day
Mm, mm, mm
California dreamin'
California dreamin'
Oh, California dreamin'
On such a winter's day
The lyrics to "California Dreamin'" by The Mamas & The Papas speak to the longing for a different life and a desire for warmth and happiness in the midst of a cold and dreary winter day. The singer starts by observing the wintery surroundings, with brown leaves and a gray sky, and expresses a desire to be in Los Angeles, where they would feel safe and warm. The phrase "California dreamin'" is repeated throughout the song, emphasizing the yearning for a better, more idyllic life.
In the second verse, the singer enters a church and kneels down to pray. It's interesting to note that the preacher is mentioned, suggesting a connection to spirituality, but also indicating that the singer is aware of the cold reality of their current situation. The preacher "likes the cold" possibly implies that the preacher understands the struggles of the world and the inner turmoil the singer is experiencing. Despite this, the singer feels compelled to stay and continue dreaming of their idealized California.
Line by Line Meaning
All the leaves are brown
The natural beauty around me is fading and dying.
And the sky is gray
The atmosphere feels gloomy and lacks color.
I've been for a walk
I have taken a leisurely stroll.
On a winter's day
During a season characterized by cold and darkness.
I'd be safe and warm
I would feel secure and comfortable.
If I was in L.A.
If I were in Los Angeles, California.
California dreamin'
Longing for the ideals and aspirations associated with California.
On such a winter's day
Even on a cold and dreary day like today.
Stopped into a church
Entered a place of worship along my path.
I passed along the way
As I continued on my journey.
Well, I got down on my knees
I humbly knelt in prayer.
And I pretend to pray
Though I may not truly believe, I go through the motions of prayer.
You know the preacher likes the cold
The preacher is comfortable with the solemnity of winter.
He knows I'm gonna stay
He understands that I will remain in this state of longing.
Mm, mm, mm
An interjection suggesting deep contemplation or emotion.
California dreamin'
Continuing to yearn for the ideals associated with California.
California dreamin'
Continuing to long for the dreams and aspirations tied to California.
Oh, California dreamin'
Expressing a strong desire and yearning for the California dream.
On such a winter's day
Even in the midst of a cold and dark season.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Written by: MICHELLE GILLIAM, JOHN EDMUND ANDREW PHILLIPS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind