The song "I Can Hear the River" by Joe Cocker portrays a feeling of longing and love for someone who is not present. The lyrics describe a sense of loneliness and vulnerability, as the narrator finds solace and hope in the presence of water and the river. On a balancing beam, which may symbolize the precarious nature of the narrator's emotions, they feel a deep connection or attraction towards the person they are in love with. Each time they scream, they lose their breath, highlighting the intensity of their feelings. The narrator wishes that their loved one was by their side on the cliff, emphasizing their desire for companionship and emotional support. They believe that their love for this person is so strong that it must be the reason they can see the water and feel less lonely. In the park at night, the narrator sits alone in the dark, potentially waiting for their loved one. They express that the waiting feels unbearable, and they long for the water to break through, possibly representing a release of their emotions or the arrival of their beloved. Being near the river brings a sense of peace and connection. The narrator can hear the river and see the bridges, signifying a gateway or bridge to the outside world and a reminder of the presence of their loved one. They feel the morning and almost touch their loved one, suggesting a strong desire to be physically close to them. The river and its tide symbolize how the narrator's emotions ebb and flow. They find comfort and companionship by the river, feeling less lonely when in its presence. The morning brings a sense of renewal and possibility, further alleviating their feelings of loneliness. Overall, "I Can Hear the River" reflects a deep longing and passion for someone who is not physically present. The narrator finds solace and emotional connection in the symbolism of water and the river, which serve as a reminder of their love and a source of hope in their loneliness.
