Meaning of "Death Came" by Lucinda Williams

The lyrics of the song "Death Came" by Lucinda Williams explore the themes of mortality, loss, and the inscrutability of death. The speaker describes their experiences with life's various offerings, from seeking truth in the river to tasting the fruit of knowledge. Despite their attempts to understand and make sense of the world, death remains an enigmatic force that cannot be fully grasped. The repetition of the line "Why death gave you his kiss" reflects the speaker's deep longing for answers and their struggle to come to terms with the sudden departure of a loved one. Ultimately, the song conveys a sense of helplessness and mourning in the face of the unavoidable reality of death.