Meaning of "River Boat Song" by J.J. Cale

The narrator's deep affection and attachment to his lover are evident in "River Boat Song," as he expresses his loneliness and longing for her. The river boat setting adds a sense of adventure and romance to their relationship, emphasizing the distance and longing between them when she is away working. The repetition of the refrain highlights the singer's anticipation and eagerness for his lover's return, as he eagerly awaits the sound of the river boat whistle that signals her arrival. The lyrics also touch on themes of love, yearning, and the passage of time, painting a picture of a devoted partner waiting for their loved one to come back to them.