"Four Strong Winds" is a song originally written by Canadian folk singer Ian Tyson and later popularized by John Denver. The song tells the story of a person who has decided to leave their loved one behind and move on to Alberta, a province in Canada. The lyrics depict the four strong winds symbolizing the loneliness and the seven seas representing the vastness of the world. These elements are used to emphasize that certain things in life, like the winds and the seas, never change regardless of the circumstances. The protagonist acknowledges that their good times together have ended, and they are determined to move on with their life. They express their desire for their loved one to change their mind and join them, but they understand that this plea has been made many times before. The singer mentions the good weather in Alberta during the fall and how they have friends who can provide them with work there. They express their wish for their loved one to join them, but also acknowledge the harsh climate and lack of opportunities during the winter season in Alberta. The overall meaning of the song revolves around the choices people make in life, the desire for change, and the acceptance that sometimes one must move on, even if it means leaving someone behind. It portrays the bittersweet emotions of longing for the past while acknowledging the need to embrace new experiences.
