The lyrics describe a struggle with aging and mortality, as the speaker contemplates various ways to deal with the inevitability of growing old and eventually dying. The idea of being consumed or picked clean by death is symbolically represented throughout the song, with a sense of resignation and acceptance.

Meaning of "Those Final Feet" by Cowboy Junkies

The lyrics of "Those Final Feet" by Cowboy Junkies delve into the unsettling theme of aging and mortality. The speaker grapples with the inevitable process of growing old and ultimately facing death. The mention of placing the body on a funeral pyre or leaving it frozen on a mountain top reflects a desire for a peaceful escape or a release from the burdens of aging. The dream of owls symbolizes a sense of foreboding and impending doom, serving as a reminder of the passage of time and the finality of life. The repeated line "You said never to grow old, but you forgot to tell me how" captures the sense of confusion and helplessness that often comes with grappling with the aging process. The image of sinking teeth into "those final feet" suggests the consumption and ultimate defeat of death. Overall, the lyrics convey a mix of resignation, defiance, and acceptance in the face of mortality.