The lyrics of "Evangeline" tell the story of a woman named Evangeline waiting for her lover, a riverboat gambler, on the banks of the Mississippi. When he doesn't return, she is consumed by sorrow and curses the river that took him away, ultimately leading to her descent into madness and despair.

Meaning of "Evangeline" by Emmylou Harris

The lyrics of "Evangeline" explore themes of loss, love, and the power of the natural world. Evangeline's grief and anger towards the Mississippi Queen, which symbolizes the river itself, reflect her internal turmoil and inability to come to terms with the loss of her lover. The song portrays Evangeline's slow descent into madness as she waits in vain for her lover to return, ultimately watching the river take him away forever. Through vivid imagery and haunting lyrics, the song paints a poignant picture of heartbreak and the destructive force of unfulfilled love.