Song meaning of Don’t Drink the Water by Dave Matthews Band (Ft. Alanis Morissette & Béla Fleck)

"Don't Drink the Water" by Dave Matthews Band featuring Alanis Morissette and Béla Fleck is a powerful and haunting song that delves into themes of power, dominance, and the consequences of greed. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a ruthless conqueror who has taken over a land, banishing its previous inhabitants and asserting their own authority. The opening lines, "Come out come out, No use in hiding, Come now come now, Can you not see?" set the tone for the song, with the conqueror demanding submission and obedience from those they have displaced.

The lyrics "Away away, You have been banished, Your land is gone, And given me" highlight the sense of entitlement and superiority felt by the conqueror, who sees themselves as the rightful owner of the land. The repeated refrain "Yes I will call this home" reinforces their determination to establish dominance and control over the territory.

The song takes a darker turn as the conqueror threatens those who dare to challenge their authority, with lines like "Then stay and I will bury you" and "I will silence you." The imagery of spreading wings and building heaven upon the souls of the dead conveys a chilling sense of power and ruthlessness.

The chorus, with the repeated warning "Don't drink the water, There's blood in the water," serves as a stark reminder of the violence and bloodshed that have accompanied the conqueror's rise to power. It is a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of greed and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Overall, "Don't Drink the Water" is a thought-provoking and intense song that explores themes of dominance, power, and the destructive impact of greed. The collaboration between Dave Matthews Band, Alanis Morissette, and Béla Fleck brings a depth and intensity to the song, making it a powerful and haunting musical experience.