Whistle on the River
The Mercy Brothers Lyrics
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A loving word that's whispered soft and low
But he way of life I've chosen can be led by only one
I'll tell this to you now so will know.
For there's a whistle on the river, and it's calling with a tune
That's buried deep inside of me and I'll be leaving soon
There's a rhythm from the wheels, and the wings are on my heels
I'm like any man who's in his prime and dreams of things undone
And who must be free to wander where he may
Can't be burdened by a love nor a task to tie me down
Please believe me when I say I cannot stay.
Repeat chorus"
I know it's hard to realize that I must leave again
But your rival is not someone you can see
It's not easy to explain, my attempt would be in vain
Perhaps you'll understand that it must be.
The lyrics of The Mercy Brothers' song Whistle on the River describe a man's struggle to balance his love and desire to be free. He offers to share warmth and love with his partner but tells her that he must answer the call of the whistle on the river. The call represents his longing to be free and his unwillingness to be burdened by love or responsibilities. He acknowledges that it's hard for his partner to understand why he must leave and that his reasons may be hard to explain.
The song is a reflection of the tension between individual freedom and commitment to others, a theme that is common in many country songs. It also reflects the idea that some people are not cut out for a settled life and that they must wander and explore on their own. The lyrics are poignant and wistful, expressing the singer's regret at what he must leave behind, but also his determination to follow his own path.
Line by Line Meaning
I will share with you the warmth of a summer evening's breeze
I will offer you comfort and love in the present moment.
A loving word that's whispered soft and low
I will express my love for you with tender words.
But the way of life I've chosen can be led by only one
I must live my life on my own terms, without the influence of others.
I'll tell this to you now so you will know.
I am communicating my intentions clearly so you can understand my decision.
For there's a whistle on the river, and it's calling with a tune
I feel a strong pull to leave and follow my own path.
That's buried deep inside of me and I'll be leaving soon
My desire to leave is a deeply-held belief and I will depart shortly.
There's a rhythm from the wheels, and the wings are on my heels
The excitement of the journey is buoying me along and I am eager to depart.
And the winds are singing perfect harmony
Everything seems to be aligning perfectly for me to leave and pursue my goals.
I'm like any man who's in his prime and dreams of things undone
I am a typical man with unfulfilled dreams and ambitions.
And who must be free to wander where he may
My nature demands that I remain unattached and free to roam where I wish.
Can't be burdened by a love nor a task to tie me down
I cannot allow any obligations or responsibilities to prevent me from pursuing my goals.
Please believe me when I say I cannot stay
I am being truthful when I say that I cannot remain in this place.
Repeat chorus
Repeating the refrain from earlier in the song.
I know it's hard to realize that I must leave again
I understand that my departure is difficult for you to accept.
But your rival is not someone you can see
You are not competing with anyone, rather, my priorities lie in a different direction.
It's not easy to explain, my attempt would be in vain
My reasons for leaving are not easily articulated, and any explanation would likely fall short.
Perhaps you'll understand that it must be.
I hope that with time and distance, you will comprehend why I must leave.
Writer(s): Douglas Billard, Don Cochrane
Contributed by Evan B. Suggest a correction in the comments below.