Down By The Riverside
Various Artists Lyrics


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I'm gonna lay my burden
down by the riverside
down by the riverside
down by the riverside
I'm gonna lay down my burden
down by the riverside
down by the riverside
I ain't gonna study
war no more
study war no more
ain't study war no more
ain't study war no more




I'm gonna lay down my burdon
down by the riverside

Overall Meaning

The lyrics of "Down by the Riverside" speak about a desire to let go of the heavy burden of war and violence. The repetition of the phrase "down by the riverside" creates a sense of peacefulness and serenity. The singer is determined to lay down their burden and stop studying war, indicating a desire for a simpler and more harmonious existence. The phrase "ain't gonna study war no more" repeats throughout the song, emphasizing the importance of this message.


The use of the word "burden" suggests that the singer has been carrying a heavy weight for a long time. They are seeking a release from this weight and recognize that the riverside is a place where they can find peace and solace. By choosing to lay down their burden, the singer is making a conscious decision to leave behind the violence and chaos of war and embrace a more peaceful existence.


Overall, the lyrics of "Down by the Riverside" are a powerful statement about the need for peace and the desire to escape the burdens of war and violence.


Line by Line Meaning

I'm gonna lay my burden
I am going to release myself of the heavy weight I have been carrying


down by the riverside
I will take myself to a peaceful and calming environment


down by the riverside
I choose this location to be surrounded by nature and its calming effects


down by the riverside
This is where I can find solace and comfort


I'm gonna lay down my burden
I am committing myself to letting go of the burdens that have been weighing me down


down by the riverside
I recognize the importance of finding a peaceful place to release my burden


down by the riverside
This location represents a spiritual or emotional release


I ain't gonna study war no more
I refuse to be involved in any more conflict or violence


study war no more
I choose to instead focus on peace and nonviolent solutions


ain't study war no more
I am determined to distance myself from the destructive mindset of war


ain't study war no more
I reject the idea of participating in any more violence or aggression


I'm gonna lay down my burden
I recognize that I need to let go of my burden in order to move forward in peace


down by the riverside
I am confident that this peaceful environment will help me find clarity and purpose in my life




Writer(s): Judge Kennith Peterson, Mavis Staples

Contributed by Asher W. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
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