Like a River Runs

Sia's 'Like a River Runs' is a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and the enduring impact of a loved one who has passed away. The song opens with the singer waking up and momentarily believing that the person they lost is still present. This initial confusion and subsequent realization set the tone for the entire piece, highlighting the struggle between holding onto memories and facing the reality of loss. The lyrics convey a deep sense of regret and longing, as the singer's hands shake with the weight of their emotions.

The recurring imagery of a 'wild heart' and a 'rolling drum' symbolizes the untamed and relentless nature of grief. The rhythm of the wild heart represents the persistent and uncontrollable emotions that accompany the loss. The singer's desire to 'get up' and move to this rhythm reflects a yearning to find a way to live with the pain and continue forward. The metaphor of the river running suggests the continuous flow of life and emotions, even in the face of profound loss.

Throughout the song, the singer grapples with the idea of moving on versus holding onto the past. The lines 'What I lost in you I will not replace' and 'I will remember your light' emphasize the irreplaceable nature of the lost loved one and the lasting impact they have on the singer's life. The song also touches on the theme of personal growth, as the singer acknowledges their past tendency to play the victim and expresses a desire to mature and find strength. The closing lines, 'I carry you with every breath I take,' encapsulate the enduring presence of the loved one in the singer's life, even in their absence.