Paul Kelly

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
On a crowded beach in a distant time
At the height of summer, see a boy of five
At the water's edge, so nimble and free
Jumping over the ripples, looking way out to sea
Now a man comes up from amongst the throng
Takes the young boy's hand and his hand is strong
And the child feels safe, yeah, the child feels brave
As he's carried in those arms up and over the waves

[Chorus]
Deeper water
Deeper water
Deeper water
Is calling him on

[Verse 2]
Let's move forward now and the child's seventeen
With a girl in the back seat, tugging at his jeans
And she knows what she wants, she guides with her hand
As a voice cries inside him, "I'm a man, I'm a man!"

[Chorus]
Deeper water
Deeper water
Deeper water
Is calling him on
[Verse 3]
Now the man meets a woman unlike all the rest
Well, he doesn't know it yet, but he's out of his depth
And he thinks he can run, it's a matter of pride
But he keeps coming back like a cork on the tide

[Break]
Deeper water
Deeper water

[Verse 4]
Well, the years hurry by and the woman loves the man
Then one night in the dark she grabs hold of his hand
Says, "There, can you feel it kicking inside?"
And the man gets a shiver right up and down his spine

[Chorus]
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Is calling him on

[Verse 5]
Yeah, the clock moves around and the child is a joy
But death doesn't care just who it destroys
Now the woman gets sick, thins down to the bone
She says, "Where I'm going next, I'm going alone"
[Break]
Deeper water
Deeper water

[Verse 6]
(Deeper water) On a distant beach, lonely and wild
(Deeper water) At a later time, see a man and a child
(Deeper water) And the man takes the child up into his arms
(Deeper water) Takes her over the breakers
To where the water is calm

[Chorus]
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Deeper water (Deeper water)
Deeper water (Deeper water)Embed

Do you ever feel like life is a never-ending journey through uncharted waters? Well, that's exactly the sentiment that Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly captures in his beautifully poignant and deeply relatable track, "Deeper Water." With over 20 years of experience as a music expert, I can confidently say that this song is a classic "coming of age" story that resonates with listeners on a profound level.

About Deeper Water

"Deeper Water" is a lyrical masterpiece that takes us on an emotional voyage through the various stages of life. At its core, the song revolves around the metaphor of water, symbolizing the uncertainties, challenges, and growth we encounter along our personal journeys.

Starting with the innocence of childhood, the song paints a picture of a child feeling secure and safe with their father as they venture into the vastness of the ocean. The lyrics beautifully depict this image, with lines such as "moving with my father's hands" and "over the waves," serving as a metaphor for the guidance and support provided by a loved one.

As the protagonist transitions into adolescence, the song delves into the complexities and uncertainties of this pivotal stage of life. Kelly's lyrics resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet combination of excitement and fear that comes with growing up. The metaphorical ocean becomes a manifestation of the challenges and crossroads that lie ahead, as the lyrics depict the protagonist being "pushed and pulled between the tides" of life.

As the song progresses, we witness the protagonist navigating through the adult milestones of marriage, childbirth, and ultimately, death. Throughout these pivotal moments, Kelly beautifully intertwines the themes of continuity and reflection. The lyrics poetically capture the realization that, despite the passage of time, the protagonist finds themselves in the same position as they were as a child – guiding their own daughter through life's uncertain waters.

What makes "Deeper Water" truly exceptional is how it manages to capture the complexities of life's journey in just a few minutes. Kelly's lyrics are imbued with a profound sense of introspection and vulnerability, allowing listeners to connect with their own experiences and emotions. Whether you're a teenager on the cusp of adulthood or a seasoned individual reflecting on the choices you've made, "Deeper Water" offers solace and understanding.

Paired with Kelly's soulful and emotive vocals, the song creates an atmosphere of catharsis and self-reflection. As the waves of the music rise and fall, the emotional depth of "Deeper Water" reaches its zenith, enveloping the listener in a sea of introspection and contemplation.

When it comes to the genre, "Deeper Water" can be described as an acoustic folk-rock ballad. The sparse instrumentation consisting of acoustic guitar, strings, and gentle percussions perfectly complements the raw and heartfelt nature of the lyrics. Kelly's distinctive voice adds a layer of authenticity and gravitas to the song, further enhancing its impact.

As a music expert, I have had the privilege of witnessing the power of "Deeper Water" firsthand. The song has resonated with audiences from all walks of life and has stood the test of time since its release. Its message of growth, resilience, and the cyclical nature of life is universally relatable and enduring.

So, whether you're seeking solace during life's tumultuous moments or simply appreciating the beauty of introspection through music, "Deeper Water" is a song that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. It reminds us that even in the face of uncertainty, we have the power to navigate our way through life's tumultuous currents and emerge stronger on the other side.

• Release Date: September 12, 1995
• Artist: Paul Kelly