The song "Maybe This Time" by Empress Of explores themes of a turbulent relationship and the desire for change. The lyrics depict a situation where the narrator feels trapped and powerless, constantly hitting a metaphorical wall that symbolizes the barriers within their relationship. The line "Let's hear that wall, hit it again" suggests a repetitive cycle where conflicts arise and the narrator is left feeling unheard and unvalued. They long for their partner to acknowledge their pain and take responsibility for their actions. The lyrics convey the emotional turmoil and impending disaster the narrator feels, as they anticipate a flood of negative emotions and consequences. The line "And there's no one in this room but you" implies a sense of isolation and loneliness within the relationship. The chorus of the song expresses the narrator's hopes that their partner will finally understand and empathize with their feelings. They long for their pain to be acknowledged, but they also recognize the hurt caused by their partner's actions. The phrase "Maybe this time you'll feel me" reflects the yearning for emotional connection and understanding. The lyrics mention a "violent love" that is not a bluff, indicating a toxic and harmful dynamic within the relationship. The narrator asserts their boundaries by stating, "I don't want your touch this time," signifying a determination to break away from the cycle of pain. Throughout the song, there is an underlying sense of frustration and imbalance between the narrator and their partner. The lines "Who's louder now, tell me who's prouder" and "Who's got more shame, you can't change and I can't change your ways" highlight the struggle for power and the impossibility of changing their partner's behavior. The lyrics also touch upon the loss of love, as the narrator questions where the love went and wonders if there is a chance for reconciliation. The lines "Where's the edge when the fire spreads" and "Where's the love when we lost our heads" convey the confusion and chaos that has engulfed their relationship. In summary, "Maybe This Time" by Empress Of delves into the complexities of a troubled relationship, expressing a desire for understanding, change, and ultimately, liberation from a cycle of pain.