Meaning of "LA River" by Cold War Kids

The lyrics of "LA River" convey a feeling of homesickness and a deep desire for belonging. The speaker addresses someone who has moved to New York, a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle and competitive job market, and questions why they choose to stay there when they seem isolated and unable to find work. The repetition of "On the LA river" throughout the song emphasizes a longing for returning to a place of comfort and familiarity. The LA River symbolizes home and roots, representing a sense of belonging and identity that the speaker feels is missing in the bustling city of New York. Ultimately, the lyrics explore themes of displacement, longing for connection, and the search for a place where one truly belongs.