Meaning of 'Only Our Rivers Run Free'

by The Kelly Family

Interpretation

The song lyrics "Only Our Rivers Run Free" by The Kelly Family tell of the longing for freedom and the fight for that freedom. The lyrics begin with the description of an ideal world where apples still grow in November and trees still bloom. It is a world where leaves are still green in December - a world where the land is free.

But then it becomes clear that the land being referred to has never known freedom. The singer has traveled the hills and valleys of this land and still sees the sadness that fills it. It is emphasized that only the rivers flow freely in this land, while everything else is bound by chains of oppression.

The bravery of men is highlighted, who would rather die than live in the cold chains of slavery. It asks about the people who once fought for freedom and whether they have disappeared like the snow of last winter.

The lyrics emphasize the irony of life - how sweet life is, yet we still cry; how delicious wine is, yet it is dry; how fragrant the rose is, yet it dies; how gentle the breeze is, yet it sighs.

The transience of life and things is also emphasized. The new becomes old, joy fades in eyes that cannot see. It is pointed out that even in the sun and the flowers, there is still sadness.

The lyrics end with the repetition of the statement that the singer has traveled the hills and valleys of the land and still sees the sadness that fills it. It is emphasized that only the rivers flow freely, while everything else is held in chains.

Overall, the song lyrics express the longing for freedom, the sadness of oppression, and the hope for a better future. It calls for fighting for freedom and standing up for all rivers to flow freely - a symbol of the freedom and right of every individual to live their life according to their own beliefs.