The lyrics depict a sense of struggle and loss as the narrator tries to move on without someone. They express the difficulty of pushing forward and the pain of being without this person, while also questioning why they have to endure such hardship. The mention of Moses and New Orleans symbolizes a desire for liberation and a way to overcome the challenges.

Meaning of "Go Down, Moses" by Natalie Merchant

The lyrics of "Go Down, Moses" by Natalie Merchant delve into the emotional turmoil of having to move on from a painful situation. The repetition of phrases like "moving on" and "pushing on" reflects the pressure the narrator feels to continue forward despite the overwhelming hardship. The mention of waking in a fever and feeling surrounded by muddy water symbolizes a sense of drowning in grief and struggle. Additionally, the reference to Moses parting the water in New Orleans signifies a desire for divine intervention or a miraculous solution to the pain and difficulty the narrator is experiencing. The repetition of "why, oh God, why?" reveals a sense of desperation and questioning of the purpose behind their suffering. Ultimately, the lyrics capture the internal battle between trying to move on and the emotional weight of loss and heartache.