Meaning of "How Can I Put Out The Flame (When You Keep The Fire Burning)" by Candi Staton

The lyrics of the song "How Can I Put Out The Flame (When You Keep The Fire Burning)" by Candi Staton capture the emotional struggle of trying to move on from a past relationship that seems to be over, yet the other person continues to hold onto. The singer is torn between their desire to forget about this person and the overwhelming emotions that resurface every time they are in their presence. The repetition of the other person "stirring up desires" and "coming around" despite the relationship being supposedly over creates a sense of entrapment and frustration. The singer's internal battle between trying to let go and the lingering love they feel for the other person is beautifully portrayed through the metaphor of putting out a flame that is continually being fueled. The plea for the other person to just leave them alone reflects the singer's desperation to break free from the emotional hold they have over them. Overall, the song conveys the complexity of trying to move on from a relationship when the other person refuses to let go, and the internal struggle of wanting to extinguish the love that still burns strong.