"Send up river" is a colloquial and idiomatic expression that refers to the act of moving someone or something to a location that is farther away or removed from civilization, typically by means of a boat or ship navigating against the current of a river. This phrase often carries connotations of exile, banishment, or isolation.
In its historical context, "sending up river" often referred to the practice of transporting convicts or prisoners to distant, remote locations, such as penal colonies or labor camps, which were usually situated along a river. These settlements were typically perceived as harsh and unforgiving, thus suggesting punishment or removal from society.
Metaphorically, the term can also be used to describe any situation where someone is deliberately or inadvertently being relocated to a less desirable or advantageous position, often involving a separation from familiar surroundings or support networks.
Furthermore, "send up river" can imply a sense of cutting ties or distancing oneself from someone or something, intentionally or otherwise. The expression can be used both in a literal sense, such as physically moving a person or object upstream, or in a metaphorical sense, indicating a separation or detachment from a person or situation.
Overall, "send up river" conveys the idea of moving away from civilization or towards a more remote and isolated location, often with negative implications of exile, punishment, or the severing of ties.
