Meaning of Full Moon And Empty Arms by Bob Dylan

The Bob Dylan song "Full Moon And Empty Arms" is a hauntingly beautiful ballad that explores the themes of longing, yearning, and unrequited love. The overall theme of the song is the feeling of emptiness and longing for someone who is not there to share a special moment with. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a full moon shining brightly in the night sky, symbolizing the potential for a deep connection and the magic that could be created, but only if the missing person were present.One standout lyric that contributes to the development of this theme is "The moon is there for us to share, but where are you?". This lyric suggests that the moon, symbolizing a sense of togetherness and a shared experience, is present for both individuals, yet the absence of the other person creates a void. It emphasizes the longing and yearning for the missing person's presence, highlighting the emptiness that is felt in their absence.Another important lyric is "A night like this could weave a memory, and every kiss could start a dream for two." This lyric not only reinforces the theme of longing, but it also introduces the idea of missed opportunities. It implies that the current moment, with the full moon illuminating the night, is perfect for creating lasting memories and building a shared future. However, the absence of the other person prevents the fulfillment of these possibilities, adding a bittersweet element to the song.The phrase "full moon and empty arms" is repeated throughout the song, serving as a refrain that ties all the themes together. Here, the empty arms represent the longing and the desire to hold the missing person close, both literally and metaphorically. The contrast between the full moon and empty arms highlights the disconnect between the potential for connection and the reality of the situation.The song also explores the concept of wishing upon the full moon, as mentioned in the lyrics, "Tonight I'll use the magic moon to wish upon, and next full moon, if my one wish comes true, my empty arms will be filled with you." This theme delves into the idea of hope and the power of desire. It suggests that the speaker believes in the possibility of their wish being granted and the emptiness being filled by the presence of the other person. It adds an element of optimism amidst the longing and adds depth to the song's overall narrative.Overall, the song "Full Moon And Empty Arms" delves into the emotions of longing, yearning, and unrequited love. Through its poignant lyrics, it explores the themes of missed opportunities, the power of hope, and the emptiness that is felt in the absence of someone special. It presents a vivid and evocative picture of a full moon, symbolizing the potential for connection and the magic that could be created, if only the missing person were present. Through unexpected and imaginative themes, the song captures the complexities of human emotion and resonates with listeners who have experienced the ache of longing and unfulfilled desire.