Meaning of "Master Hunter" by Laura Marling

"Master Hunter" is a song that delves into themes of personal growth, emotional resilience, and the quest for individuality. Through the persona of a master hunter, Laura Marling declares her strength and independence. She starts the song by boasting about her ability to overcome challenges, describing how she has "cured" her skin and nothing can break through her defenses. The repetition of the phrase "I am a master hunter" emphasizes her self-assurance and resilience.

The song takes a turn when Marling addresses the notion of wanting a woman who will follow someone else's lead. She bluntly rejects this idea, stating that she has her own priorities and doesn't want to be a subservient figure. This rejection is reinforced in the repeated line "It ain't me babe," asserting her refusal to conform to society's expectations of women.

The lyrics further explore the artist's journey of self-discovery. Marling expresses a disconnect from her past self, as symbolized by water. She no longer fixates on the past, as "water doesn't do what it did before." This signifies her growth and distancing from previous struggles that brought her to the "edge of insane." The reference to almost putting a bullet in her brain suggests the intense emotions and challenges she has faced.

The song also delves into the isolation experienced by individuals who are different from societal norms. Marling describes feeling alone and unable to share her experiences. The repeated line "No, no, no, you won't keep me there" reflects her determination to break free from societal constraints and avoid being confined by other people's expectations.

The lyrics continue to explore the search for personal fulfillment and the desire for freedom to grow and learn. Marling asks to be taken to a place where she can thrive and be given new experiences. She seeks knowledge and craves something new, implying a desire to escape the mundane and repetitive aspects of life. The phrase "I have some news" suggests the artist's intent to share her discoveries and thoughts with the listener.

The narrative concludes with the line "Wrestling the rope from darkness is no fucking life I would choose." This asserts the artist's unwillingness to succumb to negativity or be dragged down by inner struggles. By referring to darkness as a rope, Marling conveys the desire to actively combat and overcome adversity, choosing a life of personal empowerment and growth.