Meaning of "Every Time I See a River" by Van Morrison

The lyrics of "Every Time I See a River" by Van Morrison convey a sense of nostalgia and longing for a lost love. The narrator laments the absence of their former partner, expressing that it has been a while since they heard their voice or witnessed their joy through dancing and smiling. The passage of time and life's distractions may temporarily mask the pain, but the memories and associations tied to certain triggers bring back the depth of emotions they once shared. The river, train, and sad songs serve as powerful reminders of their past connection, triggering a flood of emotions and transporting the narrator back to a time when they were in love.

The repetition of the chorus emphasizes the emotional impact of these triggers, with the narrator stating that every time they encounter a river, hear a train, or listen to a sad song, it feels like they are back in love again. It is evident that the memories of their relationship still hold significant weight, even if they have moved on in their current life. The phrase "I just can't stand the pain" expresses the intensity of the emotions that resurface, implying that the longing for the past love is overwhelming.

Overall, the lyrics convey the universal experience of holding onto fond memories and the pain of lost love. Despite the passing of time, the triggers associated with the past relationship continue to have a profound impact on the narrator's emotions. It highlights the power of certain sights, sounds, and melodies to transport us back to significant moments in our lives and revive the emotions we once felt.