Water Of Love
Dire Straits
The Thirst for Love in Dire Straits' 'Water Of Love'
Dire Straits' song 'Water Of Love' is a poignant exploration of longing and emotional desolation. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who feels isolated and parched for affection, using the metaphor of water to symbolize love and emotional sustenance. The recurring imagery of being 'high and dry' and the absence of water underscores the depth of the protagonist's loneliness and yearning for connection. The 'water of love' is depicted as something essential yet elusive, buried deep in the ground, out of reach but desperately needed.
The song's narrative delves into the pain of lost love and the subsequent emotional drought. The protagonist reflects on a past relationship, lamenting the absence of a once cherished partner. The line 'Once I had a woman now my woman she gone' encapsulates the sense of loss and the void left behind. The metaphor of a river turning into a stone further emphasizes the transformation from a life filled with love to one marked by emptiness and hardship. The bird waiting for the protagonist to die adds a sense of urgency and despair, highlighting the dire need for the 'soothing rain' of love.
Musically, Dire Straits' blend of rock and blues complements the melancholic tone of the lyrics. Mark Knopfler's soulful guitar work and the band's understated yet evocative instrumentation create a soundscape that mirrors the song's themes of longing and desolation. 'Water Of Love' is a testament to the band's ability to convey deep emotional truths through both their lyrics and their music, making it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the ache of unfulfilled love.