Meaning of "Old Mary" by The Dead Weather

The lyrics of "Old Mary" seem to depict a sense of reverence and burden surrounding a figure named Mary. The repeated references to her grace and importance suggest a level of respect and admiration, perhaps even a religious connotation with the mention of her being a mother to the world. However, the mention of her heart stopping and the fruits of her tomb being scary hint at darker elements surrounding her, possibly symbolizing the weight of her responsibilities or the hardships she has faced. The line "harsh are the terms of your sentence" adds a tone of inevitability and necessary sacrifice to her role. The repetition of the phrase "Now and till the moment of your last breath" emphasizes the enduring nature of her burden, suggesting that she must carry it until the end. Overall, the lyrics paint a complex picture of a character who is both revered and burdened, embodying a mix of grace and difficulty.