The river is used as a symbol of the passage of time. Its symbolism is centered around nature as a moving body of water. The source of the river is typically small mountain streams that depicts the beginnings of life, and its meeting with the ocean symbolizes the end of life. The river also symbolizes the power of nature. It is a symbol of fertility as it fills the soil surrounding it with moisture.

The symbolism of the river is centered around its nature as a moving body of water. Moving water is able to find its way through nearly any kind of physical impediment until it merges with the ocean. A river’s movement symbolizes life. In literature, cities and towns often spring up on riverbanks brought to life by the its movement. The river is used both as a sign of boundaries and of roadways. As a boundary, it is sometimes showing the difference between civilization and those outside of it. The Amazon or Congo River is a symbolic passageway into the heart of the jungle, and as a descent into the primitive nature of humanity.