This Is The Last Time

The National's song "This Is The Last Time" delves into the complexities of a tumultuous relationship, capturing the emotional highs and lows that come with deep, yet troubled love. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that is both uplifting and suffocating. The opening lines, "Oh, when I lift you up / You feel like a hundred times yourself," suggest a sense of empowerment and admiration. However, this is quickly contrasted with the metaphor of love being a swamp, indicating a relationship that is difficult to navigate and potentially harmful.

The recurring line, "This is the last time," serves as a mantra of sorts, reflecting the narrator's struggle to break free from the cycle of emotional turmoil. Despite the resolve to move on, the pull of the relationship remains strong, as evidenced by the lines, "You're the only thing I want / And I said I wouldn't cry about it." This internal conflict is further highlighted by the repeated imagery of being "under the brine," suggesting a state of being submerged and overwhelmed by emotions.

The song also touches on themes of self-identity and personal growth. The narrator's declaration, "I won't be vacant anymore / I won't be waitin' anymore," signifies a desire to reclaim their sense of self and move forward. The mention of "Jenny" in the latter part of the song adds a layer of personal confession, indicating a moment of vulnerability and realization. The closing lines, "Baby you gave me bad ideas / Baby you left me sad and high," encapsulate the bittersweet nature of the relationship, acknowledging both the pain and the lingering attachment.