Peace Like A River is an evocative song with an inspiring message of hope and resilience, made unforgettable by its melodic depth.
Peace Like A River’s lyrics explore themes of forgiveness and finding inner peace, using the river as an analogy for how, even in times of distress, peace can still be found.
1. Allison Pierce – Peace Like a River
Pierce explores themes of love and loss in this thoughtful song, drawing parallels between their relationship and “time’s shifting sands,” symbolizing its temporary nature, and her plea to her beloved to “leave us with one more kiss before you leave,” serving as both regretful and longing expressions.
The words, “Your mother turned her back on you,” refer to an estranged relationship between the protagonist and his mother; perhaps caused by his actions or choices, he is yearning for reconciliation and forgiveness from her. The chorus’s repeated verse, “Peace like a river, descending like a dove,” emphasizes this emotional need for healing. This ballad’s beauty lies in its profoundly moving melodies, which remind us that love will ultimately prevail despite any obstacles that stand in its way.
2. Paul Simon – Peace Like a River
Paul Simon is one of the greatest songwriters in rock music history. Over his long career – first as half of Simon & Garfunkel and then as a solo artist – he has amassed 25 Top 40 singles that made the top 10, 14 reaching #1, and 4 going number 1.
He is a multi-platinum recording artist with 12 Grammy Awards to his credit and was honored with induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame as both part of Simon & Garfunkel and as an individual performer. While much of his back catalog spans introspective to comedic material, certain songs stand out and capture his essence perfectly as one of rock music’s most genuine artists.
Simon explores an array of emotions in his 1972 song “Peace Like a River”, with particular attention given to his longing for former flame Kathy. The lyrics of this piece of writing are full of passion and emotion – possibly his darkest work yet.
This powerful story of family devotion and the all-consuming love of a Higher Power is told through themes drawn from beloved classics like Huckleberry Finn, Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure tales, and Zane Grey’s westerns; yet they all come together beautifully at its end – making this song well worth listening to!
3. Gov’t Mule – Peace Like a River
Gov’t Mule draws inspiration from classic rock, soul, and jazz, yet their latest work, Peace Like a River, stands apart as more than simply a throwback; instead, it stands as timeless artwork with universal appeal that both appeals and touches upon personal experiences. On their 13th album, they feature originals as well as covers, as well as an eye-opening spoken word piece to keep audiences thinking in meaningful ways.
As with the hymn, It Is Well with My Soul”, this book recounts a family that has experienced tragedy and hardship yet finds peace through faith and its power of grace. Drawing inspiration from biblical tales as well as beloved classics such as Huckleberry Finn, Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventures, and Zane Grey’s westerns, their shared faith draws them together and drives their story forward.
GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, and guitarist Warren Haynes is the primary voice on this album; however, he also employs several friends, including Ruthie Foster, Ivan Neville, and Billy F Gibbons of former Gov’t Mule collaboration Power Station New England, as guest artists to record “Shake Our Way Out”. It was mixed simultaneously during sessions held that same week prior to its release date on April 8th, 2016.
4. The Beatles – Peace Like a River
The Beatles are one of the most influential rock bands of all time, bestowed with timeless wisdom – such as money can’t buy you love and being wary of revolutions – while chronicling life during their period.
Lennon immortalized his philosophy into this timeless message song for peace and love that still resonates today. While written quickly for live satellite broadcast during the Summer of Love event, it manages to convey an insightful message without using flowery language – offering a subtle yet profound reminder that what truly matters in life is love between human beings.
This song was a loving ode to Lennon’s friends and family, particularly his mother and wife, Cynthia. Lennon remembered being inspired to write it after an English journalist asked why more of Lennon himself wasn’t put into his songs, its message being about family strength. Many Beatles compositions also addressed such subjects.
This book does an outstanding job of bringing The Beatle’s music alive. There may be bits and pieces that could prove controversial for some readers, but overall, this is an informative read that can help readers grasp some of their most beloved tunes.
