high water
Tori Kelly
Resilience and Hope in Tori Kelly's 'High Water'
Tori Kelly's song 'High Water' is a poignant exploration of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of emotional turmoil and the struggle to hold on amidst overwhelming pain. The opening lines, 'Broken-hearted tears, forever kind of rain / Alone with all my fears, can't escape the pain,' set the tone for a narrative steeped in sorrow and isolation. Yet, despite the despair, there is a persistent undercurrent of faith and determination, as the singer repeatedly tries to overcome her struggles, symbolized by the refrain 'Lord, I try, I try, try, I try.'
The chorus serves as a beacon of hope, suggesting that no matter how dark the night, something better awaits in the morning. The phrase 'Whatever comes, hell or high water / I know, I know what's on the other side' encapsulates a steadfast belief in a brighter future, regardless of the challenges faced. This sentiment is further reinforced by the repetition of 'I know what's on the other side,' which acts as a mantra of reassurance and strength.
A particularly touching moment in the song is when Kelly recounts a friend's loss, 'Kayla called my phone, said he passed away / Hard to help a friend when you don't know what to say.' This verse highlights the difficulty of supporting others while grappling with one's own grief. Yet, the friend's choice to pray in the face of unanswered questions mirrors the song's overarching theme of faith and perseverance. The repeated affirmation that 'something is coming in the morning' serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always hope for a new beginning.
'High Water' is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and find hope amidst life's most challenging moments. Tori Kelly's soulful delivery and heartfelt lyrics create a powerful anthem for anyone facing their own 'hell or high water.'