"One Particular Harbour" is a song by American singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett. The lyrics are about finding solace and peace in a specific place, a harbor, where the narrator feels a deep connection to nature and the world around them. The song begins with the lyrics "Ia Ora Te Natura, E Mea Arofa Teie Ao Nei," which translates to "Nature lives, have pity for the Earth" in English. This sets the tone for the song's theme of appreciating and caring for nature. The lyrics emphasize the importance of having compassion and love for the Earth. The narrator reflects on the fact that they don't visit their special harbor often enough but mentions their efforts to do so. They describe the harbor as a magical medicine that brings them peace and healing, unlike any doctor-prescribed medicine. The lyrics mention the narrator's past life, where they had more control and success but admits that times have changed, and they have acquired material possessions that have complicated their life. Despite this, the harbor remains a place of solace for the narrator. The song then reminisces about the good times spent in the Caribbean, under the sunshine, where the narrator used to be carefree and laugh about the fun they had. It speaks about experiencing the world, meeting people from different cultures, listening to music, and taking in the beauty of nature. The chorus, "Ia Ora Te Natura, E Mea Arofa Teie Ao Nei" is repeated several times throughout the song. It serves as a reminder to love and care for nature and the world we live in. The lyrics mention how mountains and lakes flow into the sea, symbolizing the interconnectedness of nature. The narrator feels this connection permeate through them, similar to the way oil spreads on canvas. The harbor mentioned earlier is described as a safe place where children play on the shore, representing a sense of security within this natural setting. As the song progresses, it refers to the harbor as a mysterious and calling place, both far and near. The narrator envisions a future where they are older with gray hair, and they can finally disappear into the harbor, finding everlasting peace and serenity. The lyrics end with the lines "Ua Pau Te Maitai No Te Fenua, Re Zai Noa Ra Te Ora O Te Mitie," which translates to "Bounty of the land is exhausted, but there's still abundance on the sea." This line serves as a reminder that while the resources on land may be depleted, there is still plenty of life and beauty to be found in the sea. Overall, "One Particular Harbour" is a song about finding refuge in a special place and appreciating the beauty of nature. It encourages listeners to have love and compassion for the Earth and to seek solace and healing in natural surroundings.
