Lyrics
Down on the river, it's an easy kind of life
Describing life near the river as laid-back and uncomplicated.
Everybody here's feeling fine
Everyone in the community is in good spirits.
No need to worry or get in a hurry
There's no need to stress or rush; it's a relaxed environment.
Nothing to spend but time
The only thing to invest is time, emphasizing a leisurely lifestyle.
Light up a smoke and tell a few jokes
Indulging in casual activities like smoking and sharing jokes.
And pass the old jug around
Sharing a communal container, likely a jug of a drink.
We're gonna get right on a Saturday night
Anticipation for a lively Saturday night.
When the sun goes down
Highlighting the enjoyment of the evening after sunset.
Down on the river, down on the river
Repetition for emphasis on the carefree atmosphere by the river.
Just some old boys a making a lot of noise
Characterizing the group as energetic individuals making noise.
Down on the river, down on the river, down on the river
Reiteration, reinforcing the theme of being down on the river.
If anyone calls tell them, we're all down on the river
Informing others that everyone is at the river and unavailable.
Well, we'll go fishing by the light of the moon
Switching to a fishing activity, suggesting a variety of pastimes.
And bait them hooks by hand
Emphasizing a hands-on approach to fishing, adding authenticity.
Early in the morning take them off the line
After a morning catch, planning to cook the fish for a meal.
Fry 'em all up in a pan
Describing the cooking method, likely outdoors and simple.
We gotta get home while we still got a job
Reminder of responsibilities; a job to return to after recreation.
Or we'll have to answer to the man
Acknowledging the need to be accountable to authority figures.
And everybody knows we gotta go
Recognizing the temporary nature of their departure; they will return.
We'll be back again
Expressing the intention to come back to the river again.
Down on the river, down on the river
Reiteration of the recurring theme of being down on the river.
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