Meaning of "River of Dreams" by Ladysmith Black Mambazo

"River of Dreams" by Ladysmith Black Mambazo delves into the profound themes of spiritual quest, self-discovery, and seeking meaning in life. The speaker's nocturnal wanderings symbolize an inner journey that transcends physical limitations. The river serves as a powerful metaphor for the obstacles and challenges in life that need to be navigated to find spiritual fulfillment. The repeated motif of walking in sleep suggests a sense of disorientation and longing for something elusive yet essential. The speaker's tiredness reflects the weariness that can come from a relentless pursuit of meaning, yet their determination to continue searching underscores the resilience of the human spirit. By referencing various landscapes and elements such as mountains, valleys, jungles, and deserts, the lyrics emphasize the multifaceted nature of the quest for purpose and truth. The final lines, "We all end in the ocean, We all start in the streams, We're all carried along, By the river of dreams," suggest a universal connection and shared existential journey that unites all individuals in the flow of existence.