Kirby grew up in tiny Penacook, New Hampshire, and discovered his love for … Read Full Bio ↴Kirby grew up in tiny Penacook, New Hampshire, and discovered his love for music and the water simultaneously around age 10! While starting to play drums his mother noticed he and his best friend missing for long periods of time in the afternoon and found they hadn’t been at the ball field after all. Discreetly following them down to a forbidden creek off the Merrimack River, she discovered they had commandeered an abandoned wooden rowboat and had established a clandestine lifestyle of fishing, swimming and exploration! The mothers were not happy but made a deal: if the boys hauled the boat home and fixed all the leaks under professional supervision, they could re-launch the vessel and continue their nautical lifestyle, which undoubtedly led to Kirby’s string of sailboat purchases beginning at age 19.

During his early years the Beatles were raging and Scott got his first acoustic guitar at age 12, teaching himself to play by ear and later by pouring over songbooks of Simon and Garfunkel, Crosby Stills and Nash, James Taylor and others. He claims that 40 years, 20 guitars and five boats later, things haven’t changed that much. He’s still trying to sneak away sailing and play some music, although performing over 150 shows a year, writing and recording take up a good part of his time these days.

Although Kirby played in a number of bands through his teens and mid twenties, he didn’t embark on his solo singer/songwriter career until he was nearly 35. In fact, he didn’t own a guitar for a number of years while he was fully involved as a political consultant, managing campaigns and producing all kinds of political TV and radio ads. However in 1988, after eight years of that, he packed his guitar and a few belongings and headed for Key West to get out of the cold and play a little music. Once there he began writing his own material, having been inspired by Coral Reefer guitarist and friend Peter Mayer and a very inspirational late night conversation with legendary songwriter Shel Silverstein.

Cool Water
Scott Kirby Lyrics

Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴

Times when I feel trouble
I get down on my knees
I think of all I'm grateful for
It puts my soul at peace.

Flowing just like a river
Oh cool water
Flowing out to the ocean

Wide and blue
Oh them times when I feel trouble
I thank God for you.

Times when I feel worry
I be tripping on some fantasy
Well I can look to you
And you bring me back to the truth
You put my soul at peace.

Flowing just like a river
Oh cool water
Flowing out to the ocean
Wide and blue
Oh them times when I feel worry
I thank God for you

Oh we're not giving up
Not giving in
Here side by side
Yeah we do it together
o matter the weather
We're doing fine fine fine fine.

Times when I feel lonely
Oh to feel that way now I've ceased
Well you take me all up in them arms oh..
You put my soul at peace.

Flowing just like a river
Oh cool water
Flowing out to the ocean
Wide and blue
Oh there be times when I feel lonely
I thank god for you

Yeah them times when I feel lonely
I thank God for you.

Overall Meaning

In the song "Cool Water" by Scott Kirby, the lyrics convey a sense of finding solace and gratitude in moments of trouble, worry, and loneliness. The repetition of the phrase "times when I feel" sets the stage for introspection and vulnerability.

The first paragraph highlights the songwriter's coping mechanism when facing trouble. Instead of succumbing to negativity or despair, the artist finds solace in gratitude. By getting down on their knees, they express a humble and humble act of seeking solace, perhaps through prayer. Reflecting on all the things they are grateful for helps bring a sense of peace to their soul.

The second paragraph continues the theme of finding comfort in times of worry. The use of "tripping on some fantasy" suggests that the artist tends to overthink and get lost in their own thoughts. However, by turning to a significant other or a loved one, they are reminded of the truth and brought back to reality. This person becomes a source of stability and guidance, putting the artist's soul at ease.

The third paragraph introduces themes of resilience and unity. It suggests that regardless of the challenges faced, the artist and their companion are determined to stand strong together. Their unwavering commitment to supporting one another is highlighted, symbolizing their determination not to give up or give in. No matter the circumstances or external factors, they declare that they are doing fine side by side.

The final paragraph delves into the feelings of loneliness. The artist acknowledges the times when they feel isolated and lost. Yet, their companion serves as a source of comfort, embracing them in their arms and providing emotional support. Once again, this person's presence brings peace to the artist's soul.

Throughout the song, the metaphor of "cool water" serves to represent a soothing and calming force. This imagery signifies the healing power of gratitude, truth, unity, and love in overcoming life's troubles, worries, and lonely moments. Ultimately, the lyrics express gratitude to God for the presence of this significant person who brings solace and peace to the artist's soul.

Line by Line Meaning

Times when I feel trouble
During challenging times

I get down on my knees
I pray for guidance

I think of all I'm grateful for
I reflect on the blessings in my life

It puts my soul at peace
It brings tranquility to my inner being

Flowing just like a river
Moving smoothly and effortlessly

Oh cool water
Refreshing and soothing

Flowing out to the ocean
Expanding and spreading far and wide

Wide and blue
Vast and serene

Oh them times when I feel trouble
During those moments of difficulty

I thank God for you
I express gratitude for your presence

Times when I feel worry
When anxiety consumes me