There's things I know I should have mentioned sooner
But I didn't know how
I'm sorry I lost you
I never thought that this could come between us
I know it's water and bridges now

But what's the sense in carrying around
This weight? These words are tearing me apart

And that's enough for the back to break
That's an awful lot to take
But I've been paying for it since I drove my girl away
And that's the sign of a solemn man
I'll make the best of the best I can
And I'll be better for it if I ever get my chance

That face, I know exactly what you're thinking
But I'm certain this time is different
And that's why I can't pretend that everything is mended
I know I've tried to for too long now

But what's the sense in carrying around
This weight? These words are tearing us apart

And that's enough for the back to break
That's an awful lot to take
But I've been paying for it since I drove my girl away
And that's the sign of a solemn man
I'll make the best of the best I can
And I'll be better for it if I ever get my chance

Oh save me from a gray life
Oh save me from a gray life
I paid the price with my soul
Oh save me

And that's enough for the back to break
That's an awful lot to take
But I've been paying for it since I drove my girl away
And that's the sign of a solemn man
I'll make the best of the best I can
And I'll be better for it if I ever get my chance
If I ever get my chance
If I ever get my chance
If I ever get my chance


Lyrics submitted by finallyfree

Water and Bridges Lyrics as written by Christopher Andrew Carrabba

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd.

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Water and Bridges song meanings
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    General Comment

    polkadotbliss got it right. This song is very clearly about post-abortive regret. The lyrics could go many directions, but the title is an obvious hat tip to the Kenny Rodgers Track (later re-recorded by Collin Raye) of the same name. That song much more clearly spells out its theme of the lasting negative effects aborting your child. Another song that shares this theme is Freshman by the verve pipe. It similarly hides its meaning, and symbolically demonstrates the taboo nature of men voicing their emotions on a topic that society has claimed only can be spoken by a women. I think this is a great song, wasn't familiar with the band, and happened upon it by accident. Thumbs up!

    J3radfordon November 07, 2012   Link

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