Meaning of 'If You Were a Sailboat'

by Katie Melua

Interpretation

The song lyrics "If You Were a Sailboat" by Katie Melua is about unconditional love and support in a relationship. The singer describes different scenarios to show how she would be there for her partner, no matter the situation.

In the first verse, she describes that she would follow her partner if he were a cowboy, and that she would support him by holding him firmly, like nailing a piece of wood to the ground. This shows her willingness to support her partner in difficult times.

In the second verse, she compares herself to a sailboat that brings her partner to the shore, and she would swim like a river to be with him. This shows her determination to do whatever it takes to be with her partner.

In the chorus, she talks about the chances they both take to find their love. While she sometimes believes in fate, she also believes that they can create their own chances to make their love come true.

In the third verse, she describes how her partner would free her from prison and how he would call her all day if she were a phone. She also shows that her partner would comfort her when she is in pain by singing her soothing songs.

In the fourth verse, she shows that her partner would feed her when she is hungry, and that he would lead her from darkness to light. She compares herself to a book and says that her partner would read her every night.

In the end, she repeats the first lines of the song to show that she will always be there for her partner, no matter what form he is in.

Overall, the song lyrics express the unconditional love and dedication that should exist in a strong relationship. Katie Melua shows that she is willing to do anything for her partner and that they both take chances to strengthen their love.