The lyrics to John Denver's song "Hold On To Me" tell a story of a group of people who were on a voyage to a distant and isolated island. They were "live on arrival," meaning they made it safely to their destination. The song suggests that they were not met with any cannon fire or flags at half-mast, indicating that they were not met with hostility or tragedy upon their arrival. The group of people described in the song seemed to have embarked on this voyage in search of wealth and luxury as they were "sold out for silver and a string of black pearls." They chose to go to the loneliest island at the edge of the world, possibly in pursuit of their desires or dreams. Throughout the journey, they faced hardships and challenges, being compared to "destiny's children" and "souls lost at sea." It is mentioned that there was no room for them on a lifeboat, emphasizing their vulnerability and the need to depend on each other. The repetition of the phrase "Hold on to me" suggests the importance of unity and support during difficult times. Eventually, the voyage ends, and they return to dry land. They carry with them the stories they have experienced, symbolized by "the rope and the brand." This implies that they have gained wisdom and unique experiences from their journey. Overall, the song portrays a journey of hope, resilience, and the importance of human connection. It speaks to the idea of holding on to one another in times of adversity and finding solace in companionship.
