Cool Water

Laura Veirs' song 'Cool Water' is a beautifully crafted piece that delves into themes of tranquility, introspection, and the natural world. The lyrics paint vivid images of serene landscapes and personal reflection, using water as a central metaphor for peace and rejuvenation. The opening lines, 'I want to fly like a scroll unfolding / Float to a stone ledge,' evoke a sense of freedom and the gentle unfolding of life’s moments, much like a scroll revealing its story. This imagery sets the tone for a journey that is both physical and emotional, where words and thoughts are carefully considered before being released into the world.

The metaphor of melting 'like bullion in a golden flow' and rolling 'back to the cracks' suggests a return to a more natural, unrefined state. This can be interpreted as a desire to reconnect with one's roots or to find solace in simplicity. The idea of hardening and getting one's fill of 'cool water in surround sound' further emphasizes the theme of finding peace and fulfillment in nature. Water, in this context, symbolizes purity, clarity, and the essential nourishment that life requires, both physically and spiritually.

The final verse introduces a sense of discomfort and longing for change, with lines like 'Oh my mackinaw feels too tight / My frozen jaw begs for the break of night.' This imagery of constriction and coldness contrasts with the earlier themes of fluidity and warmth, highlighting a yearning for release and renewal. The mention of 'songbirds and sounds of dawning light' brings the song full circle, suggesting that with the break of night comes a new beginning, filled with the promise of fresh experiences and the soothing presence of nature's beauty.