"Settin' Me Up" is a song originally written by Mark Knopfler, performed by Waylon Jennings on his album "Dreaming My Dreams" in 1975. The song tells the story of a relationship gone sour, where the narrator realizes that they have been deceived and manipulated by their partner. The lyrics suggest that the narrator's partner has been portraying them as being "the greatest bound for glory," or someone with great potential and success. However, the narrator starts to see through the facade and learns that their partner has been spreading rumors and lies about them. The line "Your hands are squeezin' me down to the bone" reflects the emotional pressure and control the partner has exerted over the narrator. Despite this, the narrator decides to leave the relationship, realizing that their partner is setting them up for failure and ridicule. The chorus, "Settin' me up to put me down, making me out to be your clown," emphasizes the partner's manipulative actions. They are using the narrator as a tool to make themselves look superior, while undermining the narrator's reputation. The lyrics also mention the partner's interest in another man, suggesting infidelity and betrayal. The narrator concludes that it's best to leave the relationship and advises their partner to stop playing games and causing trouble. In summary, "Settin' Me Up" is a song about realizing the truth behind a deceptive relationship and deciding to break free from manipulation and mistreatment. It delves into themes of betrayal, lies, and ultimately, finding the strength to move on.
