To The Water

Matt Simons' song 'To The Water' is a poignant exploration of loss, acceptance, and the journey towards peace. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a deeply emotional moment, where the narrator is confronted with the impending death of a loved one. The song opens with a scene set on a rainy afternoon, immediately setting a somber and reflective tone. The loved one reassures the narrator, promising eternal presence even in absence, which is a comforting yet heart-wrenching sentiment. This promise of eternal presence is a common theme in songs dealing with loss, providing solace to those left behind.

The chorus, with its repeated lines 'I'm ready to close my eyes' and 'steady as the rising tide,' symbolizes the loved one's readiness to embrace death. The imagery of crossing over to 'heaven and the great divide' suggests a peaceful transition to the afterlife. The water metaphor is particularly powerful, evoking a sense of calm and inevitability, much like the natural ebb and flow of tides. Water often symbolizes purification and renewal, indicating that the loved one is moving on to a place of peace and rest.

As the song progresses, the narrator reflects on the impact of this loss, noting how they learned to live despite the absence. The repeated request to be taken 'to the water' and 'lay me down' underscores the desire for a serene and dignified farewell. The act of scattering ashes by the water is a ritualistic and symbolic gesture, representing the return to nature and the cycle of life and death. Matt Simons' gentle and emotive delivery enhances the song's introspective and melancholic mood, making 'To The Water' a touching tribute to the enduring bond between loved ones, even in the face of death.