Meaning of "Cool Water" by Marty Robbins

"Cool Water" is a song that highlights the essential nature of water for human survival and the desperation that arises when it becomes scarce. The barren waste mentioned in the lyrics serves as a metaphor for a dry and challenging period in life where basic needs and sustenance are scarce. The longing for water represents a deep yearning for a solution or respite, both physically and metaphorically. The protagonist's connection with nature is evident through their appreciation of the cool nights and stars, which function as temporary sources of relief. The usage of Old Dan as a companion suggests that the struggle for survival is not a solitary journey, but can be experienced alongside others. The repeated refrain of "cool, clear, water" emphasizes the purity and clarity of what is desired, contributing to the larger theme of seeking something essential and fundamental. The lyrics also introduce the character of a devil who spreads burning sand, representing the challenges and obstacles that must be overcome in the pursuit of this life-giving resource. The mention of a big, green tree symbolizes a place of abundance and hope, where the water is freely available. It serves as a destination or goal, representing the idea that there is a place of relief and sustenance, if only it can be reached. Ultimately, the song expresses the universal human desire for a basic necessity like water, using vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the desperation and hope associated with its scarcity.