Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
The question is a gentle joke about Iowa and, at the same time, the film's quiet answer to what heaven is: a place where a father and son can finally play catch. Shoeless Joe asks it first, on his first night on the new field; the one fans remember is the father's at the close. 'No, it's Iowa' has entered the language as the reply to anyone enjoying something quietly perfect.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Field of DreamsShow the scene
At the close of Field of Dreams (1989), the ghost ballplayers on Ray Kinsella's Iowa field include a young catcher. Ray recognises him as his father, as a young man, and the two had fallen out years before. John Kinsella tells Ray that he is thankful for the field and asks whether this is heaven. Ray replies that it is Iowa, and John says he could have sworn it was heaven. Ray then asks his father if he'd like to play catch, and a long line of cars is seen heading for the field.
Sources (2)
- Wikiquote: Field of DreamsThe Voice and Dialogue sectionsReference checked
- Wikipedia: Field of DreamsPlot and Cast sectionsReference checked
Context reviewed
