She's Already Made Up Her Mind

Lyle Lovett's song "She's Already Made Up Her Mind" delves into the emotional landscape of a relationship on the brink of dissolution. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who has decided to leave, despite the narrator's attempts to hold on. The song opens with the woman expressing a need to go home and spend time alone, hinting at a deeper search for self-discovery. However, it's clear from the outset that her decision is final, as emphasized by the recurring line, "she's already made up her mind."

The narrator reflects on the warnings from friends about the woman's youth and his own futile attempts to escape the inevitable. This struggle is poignantly captured in the line, "the faster I ran the more I fell behind," illustrating the futility of resisting her decision. Lovett's lyrics highlight the profound and unyielding nature of a woman's resolve, comparing it to the depth of the ocean and the height of the sky. This metaphor underscores the immensity and certainty of her decision, making it clear that nothing can sway her once her mind is set.

In the final verses, the narrator resigns himself to the reality of the situation. The imagery of sitting at the kitchen table, staring without expression, and talking without moving her eyes conveys a sense of emotional detachment and finality. The song concludes with a poignant request to be carried to the water's edge and let go into the ocean, symbolizing his acceptance and the need to move on. Lovett's storytelling, combined with his melancholic musical style, creates a powerful narrative about the inevitability of change and the strength of personal resolve.