Water Bearer

Sally Oldfield's song "Water Bearer" is a poetic and mystical exploration of identity, nature, and spiritual awakening. The recurring motif of the 'water bearer' is a reference to the astrological sign Aquarius, often associated with innovation, humanitarianism, and a deep connection to the natural world. The lyrics suggest a journey of self-discovery and a profound connection to the elements, particularly water, which symbolizes life, emotion, and purification.

The song opens with the protagonist's birth under the 'sign of the Sun,' indicating a powerful and auspicious beginning. The imagery of the 'skies rocking' and the 'dusty heart of a beggar woman' evokes a sense of both cosmic significance and earthly humility. The protagonist follows the 'water-bearing man' by moonlight, suggesting a quest guided by intuition and the subconscious. The repeated lines about feeling the 'blood flowing' and the 'rain on fire' through the redwood trees create a vivid picture of a transformative and almost alchemical process.

As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into themes of longing and renewal. The dry Sahara sand crying for rain symbolizes a deep yearning for emotional and spiritual nourishment. The imagery of the 'devil sleeping' and the 'lord of the light waking' during the dawn signifies a battle between darkness and light, culminating in a triumphant and liberating morning. The use of an unknown language in the chorus adds to the song's mystical and otherworldly atmosphere, reinforcing the idea of a universal and timeless journey. The final lines, 'There is a path across the night,' suggest hope and guidance, indicating that even in the darkest times, there is a way forward illuminated by the stars.