Hole In The River

Crowded House's song 'Hole In The River' is a poignant and haunting exploration of loss, memory, and the inexplicable nature of human actions. The lyrics tell the story of a woman, referred to as the singer's aunt, who has tragically ended her life by a river. The imagery of 'a hole in the river' serves as a powerful metaphor for the void left by her absence, a gap in the natural flow of life that can never be filled.

The song delves into the emotional aftermath of this loss, capturing the confusion and sorrow experienced by those left behind. The line 'We were touched by a cold wind, my father and I' evokes a chilling sense of grief and the sudden, jarring impact of the aunt's death. The mention of 'desperate breathing' and 'fear inside us all' suggests a shared, visceral reaction to the tragedy, highlighting the deep emotional scars such events can leave on a family.

Furthermore, the lyrics hint at the aunt's internal struggle and the mysterious change of heart that led her to the river. The repeated phrase 'She was coming to see him but something changed her mind' underscores the unpredictability of human emotions and decisions. This element of the song invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of mental health and the often unseen battles individuals face. The song's melancholic tone and reflective lyrics make it a moving tribute to those who have been lost and a reminder of the enduring impact of their memory.