Washing Of The Water

Peter Gabriel's 'Washing Of The Water' is a poignant exploration of emotional healing and the struggle to let go of past pain. The song uses the metaphor of a river to symbolize the journey towards inner peace and reconciliation. The recurring plea to the river to 'carry me on' reflects a deep yearning for relief and a return to a place of emotional safety and origin. This river is not just a physical entity but a living force that represents the flow of time and the process of healing.

The lyrics delve into the depths of emotional turmoil, with lines like 'my feet won't touch the ground' and 'I need something to turn myself around' illustrating a sense of being overwhelmed and lost. Gabriel's request for the river to 'show me how to float' signifies a desire to find balance and stability amidst the chaos. The imagery of the river carrying him 'toward the sea' suggests a journey towards a larger, more profound understanding of oneself and one's emotions.

The song also addresses the difficulty of letting go of a painful relationship, as seen in the lines 'Letting go, it's so hard, the way it's hurting now' and 'I'll get those hooks out of me.' This metaphor of hooks represents the lingering attachments and emotional scars that need to be removed for true healing to occur. The 'washing of the water' is a powerful symbol of purification and renewal, offering hope that the pain will be washed away, allowing for a fresh start. Gabriel's soulful delivery and the song's haunting melody further amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics, making 'Washing Of The Water' a deeply moving and cathartic experience for listeners.