Meaning of "Mary" by The Maccabees

The lyrics of "Mary" seem to delve into themes of powerlessness, regret, and the inability to fully protect or save someone we care about. The imagery of witnessing violence and feeling unable to stop it conveys a sense of helplessness and guilt. The repetition of "You wish that it was you" could suggest a desire to switch places with the one in danger, highlighting feelings of empathy and a strong bond between the narrator and the person being harmed. The inability to physically reach out, as seen in the repeated references to being in another room, underscores a sense of distance and separation. Overall, the song appears to touch on the complexities of relationships and the challenges of protecting those we love in the face of danger or harm.