Meaning of "Shipyards" by The Lake Poets

The lyrics of "Shipyards" by The Lake Poets portray a heartfelt tribute to someone who worked diligently throughout their life. The mention of the shipyards, a place where boats were constructed, serves as a metaphor for the individual's hard work and determination. The line "On the river where they used to build the boats" suggests a sense of nostalgia and longing for the past. By referencing the harbor wall and the place the person loved the most, the song creates a vivid image of the person's connection to their work. The narrator acknowledges the person's solitude and expresses their own intention to join them soon. The next stanza highlights the sacrifices made by the individual, who gave away everything they owned without hesitation. The repeated line "They were calling out" implies that their generosity was prompted by a sense of duty or perhaps a yearning to help others. The chorus expresses the narrator's desire for the person to see them now, suggesting that they have achieved something meaningful in their own life. Their hope of making the person proud indicates a strong sense of gratitude and appreciation. The final stanza presents a reflection on the person's absence, likening them to a ship that has left the coast. The uncertainty of their whereabouts and future is emphasized, leaving the narrator with only memories of their smiling eyes. The repetition of "And if you could see me now" in the chorus illustrates the narrator's longing for the person's approval, illustrating their deep emotional connection to them. Overall, "Shipyards" is a poignant tribute to hard work, sacrifice, and the desire to make someone proud.