Meaning of "Then The Letting Go" by The Mountain Goats

The lyrics of "Then The Letting Go" by The Mountain Goats capture the complex emotions of seeing someone you care about but trying to keep your distance for unknown reasons. The narrator seems to have conflicting feelings towards this person, shown as they turn their head away and question why this person keeps coming around. The mention of going home to Rockaway could signify a return to familiarity and comfort, suggesting that sometimes the best way to deal with conflicted emotions is to retreat to a place of solace. Overall, the song delves into themes of longing, confusion, and the struggle to let go of someone or something.