You know a dream, is like a river
Ever changin', as it flows
And a dreamer's just a vessel
That must follow, where it goes
Trying to learn, from what's behind you
And never knowing, what's in store
Makes each day, a constant battle
Just to stay, between the shores
And I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
Like a bird, upon the wind
These waters, are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So, I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
Too many times we stand aside
And let the waters slip away
Till what we put off till tomorrow
Has now become today
So don't you sit upon the shoreline
And say you're satisfied
Choose to chance the rapids
And dare to dance the tide
And I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
Like a bird, upon the wind
These waters, are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So, I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
There's bound to be rough waters
And I know, I'll take some falls
But with the good Lord, as my captain
I can make it, through them all
And I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
Like a bird, upon the wind
These waters, are my sky
I'll never reach my destination
If I never try
So, I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
And I will sail, my vessel
Till, the river runs dry
Till, the river runs dry
About This Song
"The River" is a deeply philosophical country ballad that uses the metaphor of a river journey to explore life's unpredictable nature and the courage required to pursue one's dreams. The lyrics compare dreams to an ever-changing river and the dreamer to a vessel that must navigate uncertain waters, emphasizing themes of perseverance, faith, and accepting life's inherent risks. Brooks delivers the song with his signature emotional intensity over a gentle, flowing melody that mirrors the river metaphor, creating an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. The central message-that one must keep trying despite uncertainty and the possibility of never reaching their destination-resonates as both a personal confession and universal truth about the human experience. This song stands out in Brooks' catalog for its poetic depth and serves as an anthem for anyone facing life's difficult choices and unknown outcomes.
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