Meaning of "High Water" by Uncle Tupelo

"High Water" by Uncle Tupelo explores themes of time, conflict, and the futility of certain situations. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and pressure, as represented by the imagery of sand running out. This symbolizes the passage of time and the feeling of time slipping away without resolution. The references to facing the sun and trying to find common ground suggest a struggle to navigate difficult circumstances and differing perspectives. The lines about quoting each other only when wrong and tearing out threads to move along hint at a lack of communication and the inability to reconcile differences, ultimately leading to an impasse. The repeated refrain about the inability to break even or quit the game reinforces a feeling of being trapped in a situation with no clear way out. The mention of high water forever bringing us down adds a sense of being overwhelmed by external forces beyond control. Overall, the song captures a feeling of tension, conflict, and inevitability in the face of challenging circumstances.