Lyrics
High on the banks, Illinois river
Reflecting on a location, the Illinois River banks, possibly associated with meaningful experiences.
Catch and release, now for something to do
Engaging in the activity of catch and release, suggesting a leisurely pursuit.
When overtook me a gust of wind
Experiencing a sudden and forceful gust of wind, a metaphor for a rush of emotions or memories.
It was blowing in an old memory of you
The wind carries an old memory of someone significant (possibly a past relationship).
Boots on crooked, beer in your hand
Describing a person with boots askew, holding a beer, indicating a casual or carefree attitude.
Singing a song about the promised land
Singing a song about a "promised land," potentially symbolizing aspirations or dreams.
Thought in your head, no hate in your heart
Highlighting a positive mindset with thoughts devoid of hate.
Shining light in a world of dark
Being a positive influence, a shining light in a world characterized by darkness.
Shining light, world of dark
Reiterating the theme of being a positive force in a dark world.
And if memories were worth any money
Contemplating the value of memories, suggesting their importance.
At least I'd have something in my hands
If memories had monetary worth, the speaker would possess something tangible.
Even though you burned out quicker
Acknowledging the quick burning out of someone, possibly a reference to a person's life or impact.
I will carry you with me till my end
Expressing a commitment to carry the memory of the person until the speaker's end.
First-year of college you and I didn't go
Recalling a specific period, the first year of college, where plans with someone fell through.
Pen to the paper and the wheels on the road
Reference to creative pursuits—pen to paper and wheels on the road—implying a journey of self-discovery.
Cut our teeth in every shitty bar
Describing a challenging but formative period spent in various bars.
Carving out a life on an old guitar
Symbolizing the pursuit of a meaningful life, carving it out like an old guitar.
We played for money, we played for free
Recalling experiences of playing music, both for money and for the joy of it.
Played for party favors in Eureka Springs
Playing music for party favors in a specific location, Eureka Springs.
Every backyard near and far
Remembering performances in various backyards, near and far.
Chasing down the flames of a shooting star
Pursuing dreams symbolized by chasing the flames of a shooting star.
And if memories were worth any money
Reiteration of the value of memories and their potential worth.
At least I'd have something in my hands
If memories had value, the speaker would possess something tangible in their hands.
Even though you burned out quicker
Acknowledging the briefness of someone's existence or impact.
I will carry you with me till my end
Commitment to carrying the memory of the person until the speaker's end, echoing the sentiment from earlier.
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