Meaning of "Toes" by Norah Jones

The lyrics of "Toes" explore the theme of desire and the frustration that can arise when we are unable to fully commit or engage in something we long for. The river in the song represents a sense of freedom and escape, a place where the speaker wishes to be submerged. However, it seems that life's distractions and circumstances prevent them from fully experiencing this desired immersion. The repetition of the line "My toes just touched the water" emphasizes a missed connection, emphasizing the speaker's inability to fully engage in their desired experience. The sense of longing and dissatisfaction is further highlighted with the line, "But I never seem to have the time." This could suggest a lack of prioritization or opportunity, highlighting the challenges we face when trying to fully engage in something. The idea of walking a mile to find the edge and then being unable to move speaks to the frustration of reaching a point of potential action but feeling paralyzed or stuck. The spoiled sun always having its way can be seen as a symbol of external forces that hinder our desires, reminding us that not everything goes as planned. Overall, the lyrics convey the universal experience of longing for something but being unable to fully engage or connect with it, highlighting the bittersweet nature of unfulfilled desires.