"Carolina Tide" is a song by John Mark McMillan, an American singer-songwriter who is known for his introspective and poetic lyrics. The lyrics of the song depict a metaphorical journey of cleansing, redemption, and rebirth. In the song, the protagonist encourages a girl to accompany them on a trip to the Carolina tide. Washing their hands and sins in the water symbolizes the desire to cleanse themselves of their past mistakes and regrets. By "coming back like babies," they express their wish to start afresh, with a renewed innocence and purity. The repeated motif of scarlet stains and blood red clay on their jeans implies that they have been marked by their past actions and experiences. However, the song emphasizes that it is possible to leave behind the stains and clay, to come out righteous and clean. It suggests that by embracing the transformative power of the water, they can leave their old selves behind and step into a new identity. The Carolina tide and the muddy brown wave are representative of the cleansing process. The water is portrayed as an agent of change, allowing the protagonist to wash away their sins and the world's burdens, ultimately leading to a rebirth or resurrection. This theme is reinforced with the mention of rolling out of graves and letting their sleeping die, indicating a liberation from the past and a fresh start. The song's underlying message is about the possibility of redemption and the power of transformation. It encourages listeners to recognize that their past does not define them and that it is never too late to let go, seek forgiveness, and embrace a new beginning. It emphasizes the freedom and hope that can be found in embracing the cleansing power of water and starting anew.
