Meaning of "Put The Law On You" by Natalie Merchant

The lyrics of "Put The Law On You" convey a strong sense of betrayal and disappointment towards someone who has continually deceived and hurt the speaker. The repeated question "Do I have to put the law on you baby" suggests a struggle between seeking justice for the wrongdoing and grappling with the pain of realizing the depths of the other person's deceit. The reference to a "crime of the heart" speaks to emotional betrayal and the speaker's desire to see the person who hurt them face consequences for their actions. Despite recognizing the lack of trust from the beginning and the clear signs of deceit, the speaker reflects on the difficulty of letting go and the need for accountability. The imagery of locking someone up and throwing away the key signifies the desire to protect oneself from further harm and the need to establish boundaries with someone who has consistently crossed them. Overall, the song captures the complex emotions involved in navigating a relationship marked by betrayal, deceit, and the struggle for justice and closure.