Meaning of "Back to the River" by The Pretty Reckless

In "Back to the River," The Pretty Reckless presents a longing for liberation and anonymity. The blue skies and familiarity of the world around them create a sense of confinement, making it difficult to be rebellious or deviate from societal expectations. The line "No one listens to me, the words I have to say" reflects feelings of being unheard and dismissed, leading the narrator to seek an escape from their current reality. The river represents a place of solace and freedom, away from the prying eyes and judgments of others. It offers an opportunity for the narrator to start anew, where they can establish their own identity without the weight of preconceived notions or societal pressures. The mention of the phrase "girl, you best believe in Jesus" alludes to the influence of religion on the narrator's upbringing, suggesting that faith was ingrained as a means of finding strength and guidance in the world. However, the desire to return to the river indicates a longing to reclaim a more authentic and uninhibited version of themselves, independent of religious influence. The lyrics convey a yearning for a simpler, more natural existence, where the narrator can escape the visibility and constraints of their current existence by retreating to the river. Overall, "Back to the River" explores themes of personal freedom, individuality, and the pursuit of a deeper sense of self outside of societal expectations.