Song Details
- Album Release Date: 2012
- Genre: folk
Song Meaning of “River Driver” by Great Big Sea
River Driver by Great Big Sea speaks to the harsh realities of life at sea and to the bravery of those who make their living from it. It tells the story of a river driver, an individual who transports timber from the woods to the awaiting boats downstream—a perilous journey that requires strength, courage, and skill. The lyrics, sung in a desperate lament, allude to the dangers of the river and evoke a sense of desperate times.
The song begins with the words “Oh River driver, your time is near, you must go to sea and face your fear”. This captures the sense of dread and anxiety the river driver must face in preparation for his dangerous journey on the raging river. This sense of fear is further heightened when the narrator intones the words “Oh river driver, you better watch your stride, the sea can crush a man and swallow him alive”. This line foreshadows the dangers of the journey ahead while at the same time highlighting the steely courage of the river driver.
The next stanza serves to capture the intensity and violence of the river. The narrator sings “Oh river driver, your wood it groans, the river roars and it rocks your bones”. The imagery of a powerful river that rocks and groans is used to represent the daunting challenge the river driver must face each day as he navigates the rapids.
The narrator continues on to draw attention to the immense and unpredictable nature of the river, stating “Oh river driver, beware the swell, the pressure rises in the river’s hell.” This line further conveys the danger of the river while emphasizing the sense of bravery and strength of the river driver as he navigates the treacherous waters.
The song ultimately serves as a tribute to the courageous river drivers and the dangerous yet vital job they do. As referenced in the final stanza: “And river driver, I understand, your courage to the sea is a solemn command.” It captures the nobility and valor of those who risk their lives to make a living on the water, and who are not forgotten.