When I wake up early in the morning
Lift my head, I’m still yawning
When I’m in the middle of a dream
Stay in bed, float up stream (Float up stream)
Please, don’t wake me, no, don’t shake me
Leave me where I am, I’m only sleeping
Everybody seems to think I’m lazy
I don’t mind, I think they’re crazy
Running everywhere at such a speed
Till they find there’s no need (There’s no need)
Please, don’t spoil my day, I’m miles away
And after all I’m only sleeping
Keeping an eye on the world going by my window
Taking my time
Lying there and staring at the ceiling
Waiting for a sleepy feeling…
Please, don’t spoil my day, I’m miles away
And after all I’m only sleeping
Ooh yeah
Keeping an eye on the world going by my window
Taking my time
When I wake up early in the morning
Lift my head, I’m still yawning
When I’m in the middle of a dream
Stay in bed, float up stream (Float up stream)
Please, don’t wake me, no, don’t shake me
Leave me where I am, I’m only sleeping
Dreamlike Escapism and Gentle Resistance
“I’m Only Sleeping” by The Beatles captures a serene longing for rest and a peaceful detachment from the chaos of daily life. The lyrics transport listeners into a dreamy state where the narrator cherishes the moments between sleep and wakefulness. There’s a gentle resistance to society’s rush, with lines like “Everybody seems to think I’m lazy / I don’t mind, I think they’re crazy,” highlighting a personal embrace of tranquility over busyness. The song’s imagery of floating upstream and keeping “an eye on the world going by my window” paints a picture of mindful relaxation, inviting us to slow down and savor the stillness.
Song Credits
“I’m Only Sleeping” was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. It was released in 1966 on the album Revolver under the Parlophone label.