Meaning of "Rising Water" by James Vincent McMorrow

In "Rising Water," James Vincent McMorrow explores the idea of finding solace and hope in the midst of difficult circumstances. The rising water symbolizes a sense of impending danger or hardship that threatens to overwhelm the protagonist. Despite this, they find refuge and strength in the presence of a significant other. The lines "Because you make me feel alive, In spite of rising water" express the transformative power of love and connection in the face of adversity.

The song suggests that even when life becomes overwhelming and chaotic, the presence of someone special can provide comfort and courage. The repetition of the line "Abandoning my car, About a mile from nowhere" emphasizes the feeling of being stranded and lost, but also hints at the notion of letting go of material things and embracing the unknown.

The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase "Because you make me feel alive," emphasizes the profound impact this person has on the protagonist's life. They become a source of strength and inspiration, enabling the protagonist to face their circumstances head-on, despite the rising water.

The bridge introduces a sense of loss and longing when the protagonist wakes up to find the person gone. The lines "So I sat at the edge of the lawn, Days go by, still no sign of your ghost, Never call, never write, it's a loss" convey a sense of abandonment and the subsequent longing for the person's return.

Overall, "Rising Water" speaks to the transformative power of love and how it can provide a lifeline in the face of adversity. It illustrates the resilience of the human spirit and the hope that can be found, even in the most challenging of circumstances.