Still Waters
Girlschool Lyrics


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[Enid Williams]

Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep

Don't drown in the shallow water
Of Words that bring you down
The fountain rises up again to reach the sky
And if you should forget
Retreat within your shell
Just keep your head above the water line
And soon the tide will turn

Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep

Don't drown in a sea of troubles
And words that pull you down
The phoenix rises up again to reach the sky
And if you should forget
To listen to the wising well
Just ride the storm until it's past
And soon the tide will turn

Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep

When the moon is at her brightest
Embrace the water, rising higher
When your cup is running over
Touch the night and gaze into the sky

Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep, deep, deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep
Still waters run deep




Still waters run deep
Still waters run

Overall Meaning

The opening verse of Girlschool's "Still Waters" is a metaphor that compares the depth of a still body of water to the depth of one's emotions or personality. "Still waters run deep" implies that what lies beneath the surface is more profound than what can initially be seen or heard. The song encourages the listener not to be dragged down by negativity or hardship, but to stay afloat and persevere. The second verse adds the image of the rising phoenix, a symbol of resilience and rebirth, as further encouragement to keep pushing through adversity.


The chorus repeats the title phrase, emphasizing the idea of depth and urging the listener to embrace it. The bridge suggests connecting with nature's rhythms, taking advantage of moments of brightness and plenty but also weathering the storms. The song ends with a beautiful extended repetition of "still waters run deep", driving home the message of resilience and depth.


Interestingly, "Still Waters" was not a Girlschool original but rather a cover of a song by British singer-songwriter Denny Laine. Girlschool's version featured original bassist/vocalist Enid Williams on lead vocals and was released as a single in 1983. It did not appear on a Girlschool album until a 2005 reissue of their 1983 album "Play Dirty".


Line by Line Meaning

Still waters run deep
Something that looks calm on the surface can be incredibly deep and complex underneath, whether it be feelings or thoughts.


Don't drown in the shallow water
Don't get caught up in superficial or negative thoughts and feelings.


Of Words that bring you down
Negative words or thoughts can weigh you down and keep you from moving forward.


The fountain rises up again to reach the sky
Just like a fountain can rise again after it falls, people can get back up after they fall or experience tough times.


And if you should forget
If you lose sight of your goals or become overwhelmed by negativity.


Retreat within your shell
Take a step back and become more introspective to clear your mind.


Just keep your head above the water line
Stay afloat and don't let negativity pull you under.


And soon the tide will turn
Things will eventually get better if you keep moving forward and stay hopeful.


Don't drown in a sea of troubles
Avoid letting yourself become overwhelmed with difficult situations or negative emotions.


The phoenix rises up again to reach the sky
The mythical bird the phoenix represents rebirth and is a symbol of hope and resilience.


To listen to the wising well
To seek guidance or advice from those with experience or knowledge.


Just ride the storm until it's past
Endure any difficulties or hardships until they pass or improve.


When the moon is at her brightest
During a time of clarity, enlightenment or inspiration.


Embrace the water, rising higher
Allow yourself to feel renewed or revitalized.


When your cup is running over
During a time of abundance or extreme positivity.


Touch the night and gaze into the sky
Take time to reflect and find clarity through looking at the vastness of the universe.




Contributed by Anna F. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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