Meaning of "The River" by Kyla La Grange

The lyrics of "The River" delve into the existential dread that comes with the passage of time, the fear of mortality, and the struggles in grappling with the concept of growing old and eventually facing death. The narrator reflects on childhood innocence giving way to the harsh realities of life, leading to an understanding of the inevitability of death and the fear it instills. The idea of floating with the river symbolizes a desire for freedom from these fears, a yearning for peace and acceptance amidst the chaos of existence. The mention of a friend who believed in heaven but faced inner turmoil serves as a reminder that beliefs alone might not shield us from the uncertainties of life. The reference to poet Philip Larkin highlights the inability of words to fully convey the depth of human emotions and experiences, suggesting a sense of futility in trying to articulate the complex feelings evoked by mortality and time. Ultimately, the song reflects a universal struggle to come to terms with mortality and the yearning for peace in the face of life's uncertainties.