Lyric discussion by kuska 

Cover art for The River lyrics by PJ Harvey

For me (!) it's just about life. About problems which happen to us. First we find our second half. But it doesn't mean that we will live happily ever after. In this song our dreamed life means road, road we have chosen. We try to live happily. But every one must handle with problems. The river means adversities. Coming to the river means period that is quite difficult for us. We cross river we leave there our problems (wash dirt) and go ahead. Its how life goes. Problems -> happienes -> problems -> ... till sun sets low (we die). It's quite optimistic song. Because crossing river is almost always possible and doesnt take a lot of time. It's my opinion I can have it.