Song Details
- Album Release Date: 1975
- Album Name: Unrequited
Song Meaning (Interpretation) of “Hollywood Hopeful” by Loudon Wainwright III
“Hollywood Hopeful” by Loudon Wainwright III is a wistful and honest reflection on wanting to reach the stardom offered by Hollywood, while also confronting the possibility that that dream might never be fulfilled. The song speaks to the uncertainty of striving for something uncertain and out of one’s control — success isn’t guaranteed, no matter how hard one might try. Wainwright acknowledges that, despite the allure of Hollywood, you can never be sure if you’re chasing a fleeting dream or a genuine chance at a successful career. As the song progresses, he repeatedly voices his doubts, uncertainty and longing for recognition in the chorus, where he beckons, “Come on Hollywood, take a look at me, I’m an honest-to-God, Hollywood hopeful.” Wainwright’s hope in these lines belies his underlying fear that his hopes may not come to fruition. In the end, the song speaks to how, although Hollywood may seem “out of reach,” in truth, it can be both tantalizing and discouraging.