Meaning of "Set You Free This Time" by The Byrds

The lyrics of "Set You Free This Time" delve into the complexity of relationships and the power dynamics that can exist within them. The speaker starts off by acknowledging the manipulation and blindness of the other person, who was sure to make a fool of them. The speaker eventually realizes that they have never been able to ask for what they truly want, always behind the expectations and thoughts of the other person. The decision to set the other person free comes from a place of understanding that the relationship was not fulfilling and was holding them back. By choosing to let go, the speaker is reclaiming their own agency and freedom. The repetition of "It isn't how it was set up to be, But I've set you free this time" highlights the acceptance of the current situation and the willingness to move forward towards a healthier dynamic.