Thieves

She & Him's song "Thieves" delves into the complexities of a love that is both cherished and painful. The lyrics paint a picture of a relationship marred by deceit and misunderstanding, symbolized by the 'thieves' who are 'painting the walls' with lies. This metaphor suggests that the foundation of their relationship is being tainted by dishonesty, creating a sense of betrayal and mistrust. The singer acknowledges that despite knowing the relationship is 'terrible news,' the emotional attachment remains strong, leading to an inevitable heartache.

The song also explores the theme of unreciprocated understanding. The line 'You didn't know me well, so well, as I knew you' highlights a disparity in emotional investment and comprehension between the two partners. This imbalance contributes to the singer's sense of loneliness and guilt, especially when new love 'seaps right in,' causing internal conflict. The singer's introspection reveals a struggle between holding onto old love and the guilt associated with moving on.

Furthermore, the song touches on the idea of mutual responsibility in the downfall of the relationship. The line 'We two are makers, just made this mess' indicates that both parties played a role in the relationship's deterioration. Despite this shared culpability, the emotional pain persists, as evidenced by the repeated refrain 'that won't stop me crying over you.' This repetition underscores the lingering sorrow and the difficulty of letting go, even when both partners recognize the relationship's flaws.

"Thieves" is a poignant exploration of love's darker side, where emotional entanglement and unresolved feelings lead to a cycle of pain and reflection. The song's melancholic tone and introspective lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the turmoil of a complicated relationship.