The speaker is an observant, philosophical voice meditating on the transience and mutability of human communication. Recognizing the dual nature of words, the speaker appreciates their dynamic ability to connect nations while calmly accepting their inevitable extinction. This voice relies heavily on natural imagery, comparing spoken tongues to rivers, mountain effluvia, and the wind to express these observations.

The reader acts as the direct addressee of the poem, representing living humanity actively using language to shape thoughts and sing songs. They are currently experiencing the fluid, active stage of communication. The speaker specifically urges them to remember that their current modes of expression are temporary and will eventually fade into historical irrelevance.