A Boat Lies Waiting

David Gilmour's song 'A Boat Lies Waiting' is a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and the passage of time. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of melancholy and reflection, as Gilmour contemplates the absence of a loved one. The opening lines, 'Something I never knew / In silence I'd hear you,' suggest a realization or understanding that comes only in the quiet moments of reflection. The imagery of a boat lying in wait evokes a sense of stillness and anticipation, perhaps symbolizing the journey of life and the inevitable approach of death.

The recurring line, 'What I lost was an ocean,' is a powerful metaphor for the depth and vastness of the loss experienced. An ocean represents something immense and all-encompassing, indicating that the person lost was a significant part of Gilmour's life. The phrase 'drifting through without you' conveys a sense of aimlessness and disorientation, as if the speaker is navigating through life without a clear direction or purpose. The term 'barcarolle,' which refers to a traditional Venetian boat song, adds a layer of cultural richness and underscores the theme of a journey, both literal and metaphorical.

The final stanza, 'It rocks you like a cradle / It rocks you to the core / You'll sleep like a baby / As it knocks at Death's door,' brings the song to a somber conclusion. The rocking motion described here can be seen as a comforting yet unsettling force, akin to the dual nature of life and death. The cradle imagery suggests a return to innocence or a state of peace, while 'knocking at Death's door' starkly reminds us of mortality. Through these lyrics, Gilmour masterfully captures the complex emotions associated with loss, blending sorrow with a sense of acceptance and inevitability.