Only A Dream
Van Morrison · Other Songs - Van Morrison
That I had in the night
Only a dream
But It felt so right
We were standing in the moonlight
I was holding you tight
But it was only a dream
Only a dream
And that knocked me off of my feet
Only a dream
It was dancing in the street
And the big band kept on playing
Of Bonaparte's retreat
But it was only a dream
Only a dream
But somebody
Tried to knock it down
Only a dream
But that dream
Keeps hanging around
Only a dream
We were roiling in the snow
Only a dream
And we just couldn't let go
I sat outside the window
It was just like Romeo
But it was only a dream
Only a dream but somebody
Tried to knock it down
Only a dream but that dream
Is still around
Up on Mockingbird hill
And I'm feeling no pain
Ali the birds are singing
Their all so sweet refrain
If I had to do it all over
I'd do the same thing again
'Cos it was only a dream
Oh 'cos it s only a dream
That knocked me off of my feet
Only a dream
We were dancing
Out in the street
And the big band kept on playing
Of Bonaparte's retreat
But it was only a dream
Oh but it was only just a dream
Din but it was only a dream
Oh but it was only a dream
Oh what a dream
Only A Dream
Van Morrison's "Only A Dream" stands as a poignant exploration of transience and longing, characteristic of his ethereal pop and soulful rock style. Released during a period where Morrison frequently blended spiritual themes with accessible melodies, the track captures a universal sentiment of waking from an idealized reality. While often associated with his broader catalog of introspective ballads, the song exemplifies his ability to weave complex emotional narratives into memorable musical structures. The recording reflects the artist's mature command of vocal nuance and his signature atmospheric production, which has cemented his status as a pivotal figure in 1960s and 1970s British music. Listeners often encounter the piece alongside other works that delve into the human condition, highlighting Morrison's enduring influence on the genre.