Meaning of "Feral Roots" by Rival Sons

"Feral Roots" is a song that celebrates the power and wisdom found in nature and the importance of staying connected to one's roots. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing for a simpler, more natural existence. The mountain where the narrator was born is described as having trees that call their name, suggesting a deep and personal connection to the land. The wind carries a song that speaks to the feral, wild part of the narrator's soul, urging them to keep their eyes open and to dream while awake. This implies that nature has the ability to inspire and teach, if one is open and receptive to its lessons.

However, the lyrics also acknowledge that this connection to nature has been lost or damaged. The branches of the trees have been broken for a fire that the narrator was told to make, indicating a loss of innocence and destruction of the natural world. Despite this, the feral roots continue to call the narrator back home, representing a longing to reclaim that lost connection and return to their true nature.

The second verse introduces the idea of a torn page in a book, symbolic of the fragmented and incomplete knowledge that the narrator has acquired. The elders claim that the words written on this torn page were not created by human hands, implying that there is hidden knowledge and a deeper truth that lies beyond the realm of human understanding. The narrator expresses skepticism, suggesting that the truth can be written and hidden, but ultimately concludes that these words are commanding them. This implies that there is a power and significance to this hidden knowledge that cannot be ignored.

Overall, "Feral Roots" conveys a message about the importance of reconnecting with nature and maintaining a sense of wonder and curiosity. It emphasizes the need to stay true to oneself and remain open to the wisdom and teachings found in the natural world. By doing so, the narrator suggests that they can reclaim their true nature and find a sense of home and belonging.