Meaning of "Make Up Your Mind" by Florence + The Machine

The lyrics in "Make Up Your Mind" by Florence + The Machine delve into the complexities of a one-sided relationship, where the speaker finds themselves constantly torn between their own desires and the uncertainty and hesitations of their partner. The song opens with the line "I never thought I'd be a killer, 'Cause there's so much to lose," which sets the tone for the internal conflict the speaker is experiencing. They are willing to make sacrifices and do whatever it takes for the relationship to work, but they are reaching a breaking point.

The use of the axe as a metaphor symbolizes the weight of responsibility the speaker carries. The axe may represent an action or decision that they have to make, but it remains idle in their hands as they struggle to navigate the complexities of the relationship. The other person is described as "changing like the current, not a shore on land," implying that they are unpredictable and constantly shifting, making it difficult for the speaker to find stability.

The repeated plea of "make up your mind" illustrates the frustration and longing for clarity from the other person. The speaker wants a definitive answer - whether to live or to love - but feels trapped in a state of limbo. They are sacrificing their own well-being and breaking themselves for the other person, while the other person is seemingly only concerned with saving themselves.

The power dynamics in the relationship are highlighted with references to the guillotine and the executioner. This imagery suggests a sense of impending doom and the potential for an abrupt end to the relationship if a decision is not made. The pressure is mounting, and the speaker pleads for the other person to make a choice before they are forced to take control and make the decision for them.

Overall, "Make Up Your Mind" explores the struggles of an imbalanced relationship, where one person is willing to make sacrifices and the other person wavers in their commitment. It delves into themes of uncertainty, sacrifice, and the desire for clarity and resolution. The lyrics capture the internal turmoil and frustration of the speaker, who is left questioning their own worth and the future of the relationship.