Meaning of "Guilty" by Marina And The Diamonds

Marina And The Diamonds' song "Guilty" delves into the dark emotions and deep regret experienced by someone who has committed a wrongful act. The lyrics vividly describe the narrator's haunting dream, where they hide the body parts of a broken dog with a broken leg, leaving it cold and lifeless. This gruesome imagery represents the narrator's feelings of guilt and their awareness of the terrible deed they have done.

The repeated lines "Oh I'm a guilty one, and know what I have done" emphasize the narrator's acknowledgement of their culpability. They consider themselves a troubled individual who believes they will never be forgiven for their actions. The lyrics convey a sense of self-judgment and an understanding that their guilt will follow them wherever they go. The phrase "Guilty on the run" suggests the narrator's constant, unceasing guilt that is always present, even as they try to escape it.

The second verse reveals that the narrator was merely a child when this act took place. They lament the fact that they were unable to gain forgiveness or understanding because, as they express, it is "harder." This line suggests that the narrator feels their youth and innocence should have been taken into consideration, but they were denied the forgiveness that they sought, specifically from their father. The longing for a paternal figure and the desire for their father's love and acceptance is a prominent theme in the song.

The bridge of the song provides a glimpse into the coping mechanism the narrator employed to deal with their guilt. They sing about spending years singing to forget and trying to convince themselves to have no regrets. However, an epiphany strikes them — they have been sorry all these years. This realization displays their genuine remorse and the weight of their guilt that has never truly left them.

Overall, "Guilty" explores the internal conflict of a person haunted by a terrible act they committed during their childhood. The lyrics touch on themes of guilt, remorse, the longing for forgiveness, and the lasting impact of past actions. It highlights the struggle of trying to come to terms with the consequences of one's actions and the deep desire for redemption.