Ellie Goulding's song "River (It's Coming On Christmas)" is a cover of Joni Mitchell's original song "River." The lyrics talk about the narrator's desire to escape from the holiday season and her own troubles. The song begins with a description of the Christmas season, with trees being cut down, reindeer being put up, and songs of joy and peace being sung. However, the narrator expresses a longing for a river she can skate away on, as there is no snow and everything stays green where she is. This reflects her desire to escape from the traditional holiday festivities and find solace somewhere else. The lyrics also mention the narrator's ambition to make a lot of money and ultimately leave the chaotic and "crazy scene" behind. She desires a river long enough that she can teach her feet to fly, implying a strong desire for freedom. The second verse reveals that her relationship has recently ended, and she blames herself for making her partner cry. She describes how her partner tried to help her and make her feel at ease, but she was selfish, sad, and difficult to handle. As a result, she has lost the best partner she ever had. The chorus repeats the longing for a river to escape on, reflecting her desire to leave behind the pain and heartbreak. In the final verse, the narrator reiterates the contrast between the holiday season and her own troubled emotions. The repetition of the Christmas imagery reminds her of the festivities and joy that she is unable to experience. The song ends with a closing line expressing her longing for a river to skate away on. Overall, "River (It's Coming On Christmas)" portrays a sense of yearning for escape and a desire to find solace and peace away from the holiday season and personal troubles. The lyrics encapsulate feelings of sadness, longing, and a sense of being lost.
