"Paper In Fire" is a song by American singer-songwriter John Cougar Mellencamp, later known as John Mellencamp. The lyrics of the song talk about dreams and expectations that don't always turn out as planned, and the consequences of pursuing them without considering the potential outcomes. The song opens with the story of a woman who had a dream and pursued it with great enthusiasm. However, when she got too close to her expectations, her dream burned up like paper in fire. This could be interpreted as her dream being destroyed or not living up to her expectations. The chorus emphasizes this metaphor of burning paper, representing the disappointment and failure she experienced. The second verse tells the story of a man who desires love without any commitment. He spends his life chasing after superficial things and indulging in vain pursuits. Eventually, his days burn up like paper in fire, suggesting that his choices led to emptiness and lack of fulfillment. The bridge of the song explains that there is a good life across the green fields, representing a better and more fulfilling existence. However, each generation only looks at it from afar, never truly attaining it. The lack of self-control and excessive desires cause the once-green fields to turn to brown, symbolizing the destruction caused by our insatiable appetites. In summary, "Paper In Fire" conveys a message about the consequences of pursuing dreams and desires without considering the potential outcomes. It suggests that excessive desires, lack of commitment, and unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment, emptiness, and a lack of fulfillment in life. The metaphor of paper burning in fire emphasizes the transitory and fragile nature of these pursuits.
