Meaning of "River" by Soen

"River" delves into the complexities of a broken relationship and the lingering aftermath. The speaker reflects on the past, reminiscing about the times when they were together and the unity they once shared. They acknowledge the hardships and failures they went through, but still held dreams of escaping the pain with their partner. However, distance and time have taken their toll, causing them to grow apart. Despite this, the speaker can still sense the other person's internal struggles, acknowledging that they are also experiencing pain. The scars they both carry serve as reminders of their shared history and the depth of their connection. Yet, there is a sense of longing and unspoken words that hang in the air, waiting to be expressed when they eventually meet again. The fading presence of the loved one creates an emotional vacuum, leaving the speaker with both a longing to reconnect and a realization that they must let go. The repeated plea to "let it all wither and let it go" highlights the need to release the past and move forward, even in the face of bittersweet memories.

Overall, "River" explores the emotional turmoil of a strained relationship and the yearning for reconciliation. It captures the fragility of human connections, the pain of growing apart, and the importance of letting go for personal growth and healing.