Meaning of "Let's Keep It That Way" by Anne Murray

"Let's Keep It That Way" explores the struggles of a person torn between their desires for someone outside their relationship and their commitment to their current partner. The speaker recognizes their strong feelings for the addressee, as evident in their eyes. However, they are aware of the potential damage it could cause to their partner's perception of their relationship, referred to as their "fairy tale world."

The internal conflict faced by the speaker is evident in their thoughts. They contemplate lying to their partner upon returning home, but the idea disturbs them deeply, confessing that it would hurt them more than leaving their current partner for the addressee. The speaker values their integrity and fears breaking the trust they have built in their relationship.

The use of the phrase "Let's keep it that way" throughout the song reinforces the speaker's desire for the status quo. They do not want to betray their partner or tarnish the image they have created together. Despite the strong attraction they feel toward the addressee, they try to hold onto their moral compass and keep the relationship with the addressee as a desire rather than acting on it.

The mention of finishing wine and the addressee's touch blurs the lines between right and wrong for the speaker. It signifies their vulnerability and how temptation can cloud their judgment. They understand the consequences of crossing that line, yet the attraction lingers, making it difficult to resist.

In the end, the speaker suggests maintaining a friendship rather than indulging in a full-fledged affair. They emphasize the importance of not becoming cheaters and cherishing the existing relationship instead. This decision showcases the speaker's commitment to preserving their current partnership and their struggle to reconcile their feelings with their actions.