Meaning of "River Road" by Crystal Gayle

The lyrics of "River Road" narrate the ongoing struggle of the protagonist between their desire for freedom and their responsibilities in life. The imagery of running away down River Road symbolizes escapism and the pursuit of dreams. The protagonist's repeated attempts to leave home demonstrate a consistent longing for independence, which even a supportive husband cannot fully satisfy. The mention of stealing money as a child and being a "jail breaker" suggest a rebellious spirit and a desire to break free from societal constraints. Despite the comfort and understanding of their husband, the protagonist still craves the thrill of chasing their dreams and resisting the idea of settling down. Overall, the song captures the inner conflict of balancing the need for autonomy with the responsibilities of adulthood.