The lyrics describe the narrator's realization that his once prized possession, a secret cellar filled with wine, has been neglected and is now turning into water, making all his wine taste like rain. The cellar has lost its mystery and allure, leaving the narrator feeling helpless and resigned to the irreversible change.

Meaning of "Turning It Into Water" by Al Stewart

"Turning It Into Water" by Al Stewart delves into the theme of loss, specifically the loss of something cherished and the inability to reclaim what has been lost. The secret cellar filled with wine serves as a metaphor for something precious and valuable that has been neglected and transformed into something ordinary and unremarkable. The narrator's sense of helplessness and resignation as he watches his prized possession deteriorate reflects a deeper sense of powerlessness in the face of change and decay. The lyrics also touch upon the futility of trying to hold on to the past, as the narrator accepts that he cannot change the inevitable transformation of his cellar and its contents. Overall, the song conveys a sense of melancholy and acceptance of loss, emphasizing the transient nature of all things.