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About the song
John Denver’s On the Wings of a Dream. Now that’s a song that takes you on a journey, both literal and metaphorical. Denver, a true titan of folk music, was known for his folksy charm, his love for nature, and his optimistic outlook. On the Wings of a Dream, released in 1982 on his album Dejin’ at Blind Joe’s, perfectly encapsulates all these elements.
But this song goes deeper than a simple campfire singalong. It’s a contemplative piece that explores themes of life, death, and the hereafter. It opens with a poignant verse, Denver singing about a dream of flying after death. This sets the stage for a song that grapples with mortality and the mysteries that lie beyond.
Denver, throughout his career, was never shy about incorporating his faith into his music. On the Wings of a Dream is no exception. The lyrics speak of a comforting presence, a guiding light even in the face of death. This theme resonated deeply with his audience, creating a song that offered solace and a sense of peace.
But On the Wings of a Dream isn’t all introspection. The folksy melody, complete with Denver’s signature gentle strumming on the acoustic guitar, creates a sense of warmth and hope. It’s a song that acknowledges the impermanence of life but ultimately celebrates the beauty of the journey. Listen closely, and you can almost hear the wind whistling through the pines, a nod to Denver’s love for the natural world.
The song’s bridge takes a more philosophical turn. Denver ponders the meaning of life, the fleeting nature of our time here. He asks the age-old questions: “Why is it thus we are here and so soon we are gone?” Yet, even in these ponderings, there’s a sense of acceptance, a belief in something greater than ourselves.
On the Wings of a Dream is a song that has transcended generations. It’s a staple at folk festivals and campfires, a song of comfort for those facing loss, and a reminder to cherish the precious moments we have. So, sit back, close your eyes, and let Denver’s gentle voice take you On the Wings of a Dream. You might just find yourself soaring above the worries of the world, carried by the melody and the simple wisdom of this timeless classic.
Video
Lyrics
“On The Wings Of A Dream”
Yesterday I had a dream about dying, about laying to rest and then flying,
how the moment at hand is the only thing we really own.
And I lay in my bed and I wondered, after all has been said and is done for,
why is it thus we are here and so soon we are gone?
Is this life just a path to the place that we all have come from?
Does the heart know the way and if not, can it ever be found
in a smile or a tear or a prayer or a sigh or a song?
And if so, then I sing for my father, and in truth, you must know I would rather
he were here by my side, we could fly on the wings of a dream.
To a place where the spirit would find us and the joy and surrender would bind us.
We are one anyway, anyway we are more than we seem.
There are those who will lead us, protect us each step of the way.
From beginning to end, for each moment, forever, each day.
Such a gift has been given, it can never be taken away.
Though the body in passing must leave us, there is one who remains to receive us.
There are those in this life who are friends from our heavenly home.
So I listen to the voices inside me, for I know they are there just to guide me.
And my faith will proclaim it is so, we are never alone.
From the life to the light, from the dark of the night to the dawn,
he is so in my heart, he is here, he could never be gone.
Though the singer is silent, there still is the truth of the song, in the song.
Yesterday I had a dream about dying, about laying to rest and then flying,
how the moment at hand is the only thing we really own.
And I lay in my bed and I wondered, after all has been said and is done for,
why is it thus we are here and so soon we are gone?
Oh, why is it thus we are here and so soon we are gone?