The lyrics of "Wild Mountain Thyme" speak of the arrival of summer, with blooming trees and wild mountain thyme growing around heather. The singer invites someone to go with them to pick thyme and build a bower by a clear fountain, promising to heap it with mountain flowers. If their true love doesn't reciprocate, they will find another to enjoy the beauty of nature with.

Meaning of "Wild Mountain Thyme" by James Taylor

"Wild Mountain Thyme" reflects themes of love, nature, and resilience. The imagery of summer and blooming flora evoke a sense of warmth, beauty, and renewal. The act of picking thyme and building a bower can symbolize the nurturing and cultivation of love, while the willingness to move on if rejected demonstrates resilience and the ability to find joy and connection regardless of obstacles. The lyrics emphasize the cyclical nature of life, with the changing seasons representing the ebbs and flows of relationships. Overall, the song conveys a message of embracing the beauty of the natural world, finding love and connection, and persevering in the face of challenges.