Meaning of "Diver Boy" by Natalie Merchant

"Diver Boy" by Natalie Merchant explores themes of betrayal, greed, and the destructive nature of material wealth. The song paints a picture of a young couple torn apart by outside forces that value money over human life. The diver boy's innocence and hard work are ultimately overshadowed by the sinister intentions of those around him. Emily's dream serves as a warning of impending tragedy, highlighting the power of intuition and the consequences of ignoring it. The song also touches on the idea of nature as a witness to human actions, with the trees on the mountain symbolizing a silent observer to the violent events unfolding. Overall, "Diver Boy" is a cautionary tale about the dangers of prioritizing material gain above love and morality.