Meaning of "Riverside" by Kenny Wayne Shepherd

The lyrics of "Riverside" seem to paint a portrait of the cycle of life and death, using the river as a metaphor for the passage of time and the inevitability of mortality. The river represents a force greater than human actions, continuing to flow regardless of the choices people make. The mentions of people drowning and jumping off the bridge could signify how individuals succumb to the pressures and challenges of life, seeking escape or relief even if it leads to self-destruction. The contrast between the boys with material wealth and their inability to find inner peace alludes to the idea that external success does not always address deeper emotional needs. Overall, the lyrics poignantly capture the complexities of human existence, the transient nature of life, and the universal search for meaning and satisfaction.