The song "Preacher's Daughter" by Joy Williams tells the story of a woman reflecting on her relationship with her father, who was a preacher. The lyrics depict the close bond between the narrator and her father, as he teaches her important life lessons, such as how to tie her laces and instilling a strong sense of faith. They build a house together and have two daughters but no son. The narrator acknowledges that she inherited some of her father's characteristics, as "the apple doesn't fall far" from the tree. However, she also reveals her rebellious nature, being unable to conform to societal expectations and potentially causing the family name to be tarnished. At the age of seventeen, the narrator chooses to leave home and strike her own path, refusing to bend to her father's will. This independence and courage to go against the norm may have been inherited from her father, as he was not one to conform either. Despite the differences, the bond between the preacher's daughter and her father remains strong. The lyrics highlight the unbreakable connection between them, and she loves him dearly. The metaphor of turning "wine from water" indicates that her appreciation and admiration for her father's love and guidance are deeply profound. The song also touches upon the narrator's own journey of forgiveness and acceptance. She reaches a point of reconciliation with her father, laying her burdens down at the metaphorical altar, most likely symbolizing forgiveness and letting go of past conflicts. The song conveys the emotions of loss when her father passes away, but she finds solace in the fact that she sees her father's smile reflected in her own son. Overall, "Preacher's Daughter" is a heartfelt tribute to the narrator's father and explores themes of love, rebellion, forgiveness, and the enduring bond between a father and daughter.
