In a Perfect World
Imperfect Realities: Elijah Ocean's Poetic Reflection on Love and Life
Lyrics
there's rain in California
Symbolizes unusual events or challenges, suggesting a departure from the norm in California.
and babies never cry
Implies a utopian scenario where babies never experience distress or cry.
there's always a happy ending
Reflects an optimistic view with the expectation of positive outcomes and resolutions.
Old Yeller never dies
References a classic tale where an expected tragedy doesn't occur, suggesting hope and idealism.
when you come in at 6am
Highlights a specific time (6 am) and the expectation of open communication about one's whereabouts.
you tell me where you been
Addresses the desire for honesty and transparency in a relationship.
in a perfect world you're still my girl
Expresses a longing for a perfect world where the speaker's partner remains committed.
but that ain't the one we're in
Recognizes the discrepancy between the ideal world and the reality of the current relationship.
in a perfect world your clothes are folded neatly in their drawers
Envisions a tidy and organized environment, emphasizing domestic harmony.
and you give me a goodbye kiss when you walk out that door
Describes a perfect departure with a loving goodbye kiss, contrasting with the uncertainties of reality.
I don't hear about you dancin'
Addresses concerns about the partner's social activities and potential new relationships.
and holdin' hands with your new friend
Points out a departure from fidelity and the speaker's discomfort with the current situation.
in a perfect world you're still my girl
Reiterates the desire for the partner to remain exclusive in the ideal world.
but that ain't the one we're in
Acknowledges the contrast between the perfect world and the imperfect reality.
the check is in the mailbox
Mentions the simplicity of life where essential matters like payments are straightforward.
the truth is on TV
Contrasts an ideal world where truth is easily accessible with the complexities of reality.
and I don't have to work a job
Expresses a desire to escape from a demeaning work environment in an ideal world.
where the boss talks down to me
Addresses workplace issues and the wish for a respectful boss.
I never smell that strange perfume
Rejects the presence of outside influences, such as unfamiliar scents, in an ideal world.
that you wear now and then
Highlights discomfort with the partner's current choices of personal fragrance.
in a perfect world, you're still my girl
Reiterates the desire for a faithful partner in an idealized context.
but that ain't the one we're in
Acknowledges the disparity between the perfect world and the existing reality.
in a perfect world the neighbors keep to business of their own
Envisions neighbors who respect privacy and avoid interference.
and I can fix the broken things inside our happy home
Expresses a wish to address and mend internal issues within the household.
the love we make is special
Describes a special and authentic connection in the idealized relationship.
and I know you don't pretend
Acknowledges the sincerity of emotions without pretense in the perfect world.
in a perfect world you're still my girl
Reiterates the longing for a committed partner despite the current realities.
but that ain't the one we're in
Emphasizes the disparity between the ideal and actual relationship.
in a perfect world you're still my girl
Repeats the desire for an idealized relationship that contrasts with the imperfect reality.
but that ain't the one we're in
Concludes by reinforcing the theme of an imperfect reality in contrast to the perfect world envisioned.
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