Meaning of "Undine" by Laura Marling

The lyrics of "Undine" explore themes of unattainable love and the bittersweet realization that sometimes love cannot be reciprocated. Undine, as a water nymph, symbolizes a purity and connection with nature that the narrator finds alluring but ultimately unattainable. The repetition of Undine singing her love and the narrator's plea to be let in convey a sense of longing and desire for a deeper connection, despite the inevitability of Undine's bond with the sea. The imagery of ropes around wrists, the force of the tide, and the coldness of December create a vivid atmosphere of struggle and melancholy. Ultimately, the song captures the heartache of loving someone who is fundamentally unattainable, highlighting the complexities and limitations of human relationships.