The narrator expresses his sadness and heartbreak as his love is leaving him to marry someone else. The once beautiful "river of love" has turned muddy, flowers are dying, and blue skies have turned to darkness, symbolizing the loss and pain he feels.

Meaning of "River of Love" by John Denver

"River of Love" by John Denver is a poignant portrayal of heartbreak and loss. The narrator’s despair is palpable as he watches the love of his life leave him to marry another. The imagery of the once clear "river of love" turning muddy and flowers dying on the shore symbolizes the deterioration of their relationship. The mention of blue skies turning to darkness and nightingales no longer singing reflects the emotional darkness that has descended upon the narrator's world. His plea for his love to come back home is filled with desperation and the realization that their love will never be the same again. The finality of watching her depart on the train echoes the inevitability of their separation and the end of their relationship. The song captures the universal themes of unrequited love, heartbreak, and the longing for a lost love to return.