The lyrics depict a sense of longing and regret as the singer observes the festive Christmas season, wishing for a river to escape on and dreaming of teaching his feet to fly. He reflects on his selfishness and sadness, ultimately coming to terms with losing his significant other.

Meaning of "River" by Ronan Keating

The song "River" by Ronan Keating captures a profound sense of longing and regret, set against the backdrop of the Christmas season. The imagery of cutting down trees, putting up reindeer, and singing songs of joy and peace contrasts sharply with the singer's inner turmoil and desire for escape. The river becomes a symbol of freedom and a means to flee the consequences of his actions, highlighting his feelings of regret and loss. The recurring line "I wish I had a river so long, I would teach my feet to fly" underscores the desire for a fresh start, a chance to relinquish the mistakes of the past and move towards a brighter future. The mention of making money and quitting the 'crazy scene' hints at a desire for simplicity and a break from the pressures of the world. The acknowledgment of his own flaws and the acknowledgment of losing the best thing he ever had reveal a sense of accountability and acceptance of the consequences of his behavior. Overall, the song delves into themes of regret, longing for escape, and the bittersweet nature of lost love.