Standing Knee Deep in a River
Joe Cocker Lyrics

The song “Standing Knee Deep in a River” by Joe Cocker is a reflective piece that touches upon themes of regret, loneliness, and missed opportunities. The song begins with the singer lamenting the loss of close friends, who have slipped away from his life. He acknowledges that these friendships were limited, as he could count them on one hand with a leftover finger or two. He notes that these friends have rolled by like water, and he wishes he knew where they were. This sense of loss and distance is then further underscored through the use of the metaphor of standing knee deep in a river and dying of thirst, implying that despite being surrounded by plenty, one can still feel empty and unfulfilled.

The second half of the song then delves into the singer’s romantic relationships, past and present. He acknowledges that some of his past partners have been forgotten, but one or two still linger, leading him to question why he ever let them go. Once again, the metaphor of rolling by like water is employed, highlighting the fleeting nature of love and missed connections. The song’s final verse then shifts to the present moment, where the singer is rushing through his day in a world full of strangers. He feels unseen and isolated, as these strangers turn their eyes away from him. This overwhelming sense of loneliness is palpable and drives home the song’s overall message of the transience of life and the importance of connection.