The narrator recalls a past incident where he and his brother went fishing down the river. They encountered a man named Wilson who had a previous fight with the brother. Later, the narrator's brother falls overboard and disappears, with Wilson bragging about his supposed drowning. Suspecting foul play, the narrator seeks revenge by killing Wilson and disposing of his body. The guilt and grief over his brother's death continue to weigh heavily on the narrator's mind. The song ends with the narrator implying that he will seek retribution against Wilson's cousin.

Meaning of "Down The River" by Chris Knight

In "Down The River" by Chris Knight, the lyrics depict a tale of revenge and guilt. The narrator's initial fishing trip with his brother takes a dark turn when they encounter Wilson, a man their brother had a fight with. The mysterious disappearance of the brother leads the narrator to suspect foul play, and his grief and anger drive him to take matters into his own hands. The act of killing Wilson is a form of twisted justice, motivated by the narrator's desire for closure and revenge. The weight of his actions and the loss of his brother haunt him, as indicated by his lack of interest in fishing and his constant thoughts of Wilson's cousin, suggesting further acts of violence may be forthcoming. Overall, the lyrics explore the themes of grief, guilt, and the consequences of one's actions.