Lyric discussion by ian85 

Cover art for Rise to Me lyrics by Decemberists, The

The narrator begins by describing nature as a source of sustenance and then assumes the anthropomorphic voice of the trees and streams to express the strength and forcefulness of nature. He then addresses two people he cares about, telling them to be strong in the same way he has described the strength of nature.

Simple idea, but beautifully and artfully done.

One of my favorites on the new album.

My Interpretation