Dream to Live

Great Big Sea · Fortune's Favour [2008]

Set off for America far across the ragin' sea

From the frozen coves of my island home

To the land of liberty

I have to leave my girl behind

Until I make my way

Oh Molly dear please wait for me

I'll come back for you some day



We landed hard in Boston

and I'd never seen the like

A small boat boy from around the bay

In this sea of shining lights

Two days in I got a job

Building towers of high steel

I had to learn, to not look down

And I quickly learned to kneel



All I need is one good nights sleep

In your loving arms, to mend

We sleep to dream

And we dream to live

Will I live to love you again



I saved every cent I could

But the months turned into years

Then a letter came from Molly

and confirmed my deepest fears

She would no longer wait for me,

she'd found a better man

I might have been in America,

but my heart was broken

In Newfoundland



My working days are over now

And my children have all grown

I did the best with what I had

But some days I feel alone

I often wonder where you are

Do you still know my name

Deep inside this old man's heart

There's a love that still remains

Dream to Live

Great Big Sea's 'Dream to Live' stands as a defining track from their 2008 album 'Fortune's Favour,' showcasing the band's signature blend of indie rock and Celtic influences. Released during a period where the group refined their sound following early experimental works, the song captures the raw energy and melodic sensibilities that have characterized their career since the mid-1990s. The recording features the band's characteristic interplay between driving rhythms and atmospheric textures, reflecting themes of resilience and hope often explored in their discography. As a staple of their live performances, the track exemplifies the Scottish band's ability to craft anthemic songs that resonate within the broader indie and folk-rock landscape.