Drag The River

Morrissey's song 'Drag The River' delves into themes of loss, longing, and the haunting presence of those who have passed. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a river as a metaphorical boundary between life and death. The act of dragging the river symbolizes a search for closure or remnants of a lost loved one. The river, often seen as a symbol of life's flow, here becomes a mirror reflecting the past and the memories of the departed. The repeated invitation to 'join me' suggests a yearning for reunion, perhaps in the afterlife, where happiness is promised despite the somber tone of the song.

The imagery of the coastal shore and the 'abhorrent torrent crashing as it pours' evokes a sense of overwhelming grief and the relentless nature of sorrow. The 'countercurrent' holding a secret at the rise of tides hints at hidden truths or unresolved emotions that surface with time. The heart 'born too high' could signify a soul that feels out of place in the world, yearning for a connection that transcends earthly existence. This adds a layer of existential contemplation to the song, as Morrissey often explores themes of alienation and the search for meaning.

The mention of the 'soul of submersible stone' and the preparation for departure every second of life underscores the inevitability of death and the constant presence of mortality. The cries for a mother and the stark, haunting reflections in the river emphasize the deep emotional scars left by loss. The song's melancholic yet inviting refrain to 'join us' suggests a collective experience of grief and the hope for eventual peace and reunion. Morrissey's poignant lyrics and evocative imagery create a powerful narrative that resonates with the universal human experience of mourning and the desire for connection beyond the grave.