Meaning of "Riversong" by A Fine Frenzy

In "Riversong," the river serves as a powerful metaphor for life's twists and turns, as well as the search for belonging and purpose. The speaker's initial encounter by the river is mystical and filled with wonder, symbolized by the flowers in their hair and the affectionate fishes. However, as the journey progresses, the speaker's sense of belonging diminishes, highlighted by the disappearance of the fish and the unresponsive boulders. The river's relentless flow symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitability of change, while also representing the elusive nature of finding one's true place in the world. The ending lines emphasize the transient and uncontrollable essence of life, suggesting that true fulfillment may lie in embracing the uncertainty rather than trying to hold onto it.