Meaning of "Unhappily Married" by Pistol Annies

"Unhappily Married" delves into the struggles and conflicts that arise in a troubled marriage. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship plagued by misunderstandings and frustration. The song opens with the speaker feeling unappreciated, as they are mistaken for a maid and expected to tend to their partner's every need. The resentment builds as they see their partner's inability to take care of themselves, symbolized by the line "Can't even wash your own whiskey out your glass." The speaker admits to withholding love, but they also admit their inability to let go, highlighting the complexities of their emotions.

The chorus serves as a mantra of resignation, with the repeated lines "Hey, hey, it's alright / Everybody fusses, everybody fights / With all of the baggage you and me carry / We'll spend forever unhappily married." This chorus reflects the sentiment that fights and disagreements are a common occurrence in any relationship, but the weight of their personal baggage turns their marriage into a perpetual state of unhappiness.

The lyrics continue to highlight various conflicts within the relationship, including financial strain and physical appearances. The speaker sarcastically suggests that their partner should work more overtime to afford their expenses, remarking on their inability to buy things beyond their means. They also address the physical changes each partner is experiencing, showing a dissatisfaction with each other's appearances. This highlights the superficial nature of their grievances and suggests that these minor issues have magnified within the context of their unhappy marriage.

In the final verse, the speaker reveals their acceptance of their roles within the disastrous marriage. They offer a satirical exchange, suggesting that they will continue to perform their assigned tasks in the relationship. The speaker acknowledges that they have embraced the roles of the "bitch" and the "bastard," playing into the toxicity of their dynamic.

As the song ends with the line "Can I get an amen? Amen," it serves as both a plea for validation and a recognition that their situation is unlikely to change. The repetition of "Amen" adds an ironic twist, highlighting the resignation and hopelessness that is prevalent throughout the song.