Meaning of Across The Water - Neneh Cherry

Neneh Cherry's song "Across The Water" delves into a tapestry of themes, including resilience, maternal concern, and societal introspection. Featured on her 2014 album "Blank Project," this track offers a profound exploration of both personal and collective struggles. Through its evocative lyrics, Cherry crafts a vivid portrayal of emotional depth and societal commentary, encouraging listeners to engage in introspection and contemplation of their own experiences and surroundings.

The lyrics commence with a contemplation on endurance and the capacity to weather life's adversities, drawing a parallel between sustenance and the fuel that propels a motor. This metaphor underscores the significance of resilience in navigating the trials and tribulations inherent in the human experience, portraying it as an essential facet of existence itself.

As the song unfolds, Cherry delves into the intricacies of loss, particularly the enduring impact of maternal absence. References to rain serve as a poignant metaphor for emotional turmoil, encapsulating the enduring grief and persistent longing for solace that accompany such loss.

Throughout the composition, Cherry offers a critique of societal norms and behaviors, challenging the notion of incessant pursuit of pleasure and distraction as avenues of escapism. The refrain, "No excuse for behavior than no one can defend," serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked indulgence and the necessity of personal accountability.

Amidst the introspection, Cherry articulates a profound concern for future generations, notably her daughters. The imagery of lambs being led to slaughter evokes a sense of vulnerability and underscores the imperative of safeguarding innocence and nurturing resilience in an increasingly uncertain world.

The title of the song, "Across The Water," hints at a theme of separation and distance, both literal and metaphorical. Cherry's imagery of hands reaching across water and feet immersed in the sea speaks to the universal human experience of longing and connection, transcending physical boundaries and resonating on a deeper, existential level.

Ultimately, "Across The Water" emerges as a poignant meditation on the human condition, seamlessly weaving personal narrative with broader societal critique. Through her introspective lyrics and emotive delivery, Neneh Cherry invites listeners to confront their own fears, aspirations, and responsibilities within the context of a rapidly evolving world.