Meaning of "Wild Mountain Thyme" by Mark Knopfler

The song "Wild Mountain Thyme" embraces themes of love, nature, and the passage of time. The mention of summer symbolizes a time of renewal and growth, with the blooming heather and thyme representing the beauty and abundance of nature. The narrator's invitation to the lassie to join him in picking thyme could be interpreted as a metaphor for sharing life's simple pleasures and enjoying the wonders of nature together. The imagery of building a bower by a clear fountain and surrounding it with flowers from the mountain further emphasizes the connection between love and nature. The mention of finding another if his true love doesn't reciprocate his feelings suggests resilience and the belief that love can be found again in different forms. Overall, the lyrics evoke a sense of romance, appreciation for the natural world, and the enduring cycle of love and renewal.