About the song
Carly Simon’s soulful ballad, “Let the River Run,” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Serving as the theme song for the 1988 film Working Girl, this poignant track encapsulates the spirit of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
Simon’s evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman navigating life’s challenges with grace and courage. The song’s central metaphor of a river flowing freely symbolizes the ebb and flow of life’s experiences, emphasizing the importance of letting go and embracing the journey. The opening lines, “Let the river run, let the river run, let the river run, through the woods,” evoke a sense of tranquility and peace, setting the stage for a tale of personal triumph.
Simon’s heartfelt vocals, combined with the song’s lush orchestration, create a powerful and emotionally resonant atmosphere. The track’s soaring chorus, “Let the river run, let the river run, let the river run, through the woods,” is a testament to Simon’s ability to convey both vulnerability and strength. The song’s uplifting message of hope and perseverance has made it a beloved anthem for generations.
“Let the River Run” not only captivated audiences but also garnered critical acclaim, earning Simon prestigious awards such as the Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Grammy. This recognition solidified Simon’s status as a songwriting icon and further cemented the song’s place in music history.
Beyond its commercial success and critical acclaim, “Let the River Run” has endured as a timeless piece of music. Its enduring appeal lies in its universal themes of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of dreams. Whether you’re facing personal challenges or simply seeking inspiration, this song offers a comforting and uplifting message that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
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Lyrics
Let the river run
Let all the dreamers wake the nation
Come, the New Jerusalem
Silver cities rise
The morning lights the streets that lead them
And sirens call them on with a song
It’s asking for the taking
Trembling, shaking
Oh, my heart is aching
We’re coming to the edge
Running on the water
Coming through the fog
Your sons and daughters
We the great and small
Stand on a star
And blaze a trail of desire
Through the darkening dawn
It’s asking for the taking
Come run with me now
The sky is the colour of blue
You’ve never even seen
In the eyes of your lover
Oh, my heart is aching
We’re coming to the edge
Running on the water
Coming through the fog
Your sons and daughters
It’s asking for the taking
Trembling, shaking
Oh, my heart is aching
We’re coming to the edge
Running on the water
Coming through the fog
Your sons and daughters
Let the river run (Let the river run)
Let all the dreamers (let all the dreamers)
Wake the nation (wake the nation)
Come, the New Jerusalem