Meaning of "Marietta" by The Lone Bellow

The lyrics of "Marietta" seem to explore a tumultuous and toxic relationship dynamic. Marietta is depicted as a figure who brings both flood and fire into the speaker's soul, representing the intense impact she has on their emotional well-being. Despite acknowledging the negative aspects of their connection and the loneliness that envelops Marietta, the speaker continues to allow her back into their life. The repetition of "I let you in again" implies a cycle of destruction and renewal, with the speaker constantly waiting for the storm to arrive. The references to worry, love, losing, winning, striving, leaving, stealing, breaking, and shame paint a picture of a relationship fraught with conflict and inner turmoil. Ultimately, the speaker seems resigned to their role in this destructive dynamic, accepting that they are complicit in the cycle of pain and longing.