Taylor Swift premieres her new self in “THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT.”

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TOP 5

Honorable Mention. I Can Do It With a Broken Heart 

Even mega superstars like Taylor Swift use work as a distraction.

In “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart,” Taylor Swift dons her “pop star” persona and throws herself wholeheartedly into every “Eras tour” show, using it as a distraction from the heavy depression that looms after her past breakup. Smiling through the pain, she embodies a sentiment many can relate to all too well. This song is undoubtedly the anthem for crying on the dance floor this year.

5. Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?

In case you need a reminder, the old Taylor’s dead. 

In “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?” Taylor says she no longer hides from malicious rumors; she confronts them head-on. She mainly addresses how the public, including her peers, turned her life into entertainment for everyone. Despite the expectation that she would endure the hate, she reveals that the negativity actually helped her become strong enough to reclaim her power. While Taylor’s unapologetic now, it’s saddening to acknowledge that years of scrutiny have extinguished her former self.

4. Guilty as Sin?

Let’s be honest: this song is better than any modern-day romance. 

After her breakup with longtime ex Joe Alwyn, Taylor Swift allegedly had a fling with The 1975 lead singer Matty Healy. Despite public disapproval, her burning passion for him remained undeniable. In “Guilty as Sin?” Taylor delves into her internal conflict regarding her forbidden desire, acknowledging the potential for fatal consequences but recognizing it as her only escape from her dull relationship. The track’s dreamy, acoustic country-pop melody reflects the powerful intertwining of the two lovers. 

3. Down Bad

“Down Bad” feels too much like a personal attack.

“Down Bad” epitomizes the devastating aftermath of a breakup, portraying a downward spiral into despair. Despite the expectation to despise her former partner, Taylor cannot do so.

The soft-pop production falls short of capturing the raw emotion conveyed in the messy lyrics, which vividly depict the intense emotions akin to teenage heartbreak. Despite her efforts to heal, Taylor finds herself consumed by heartache, reaching a point of no return.

2. Florida!!! (feat. Florence + the Machine)

Florence and Taylor are the unexpected duo we never knew we needed. 

What’s one thing wanted criminals and Taylor Swift have in common? They both crave a new life in Florida. When her once fairy-tale romance turns into an inescapable nightmare, Taylor yearns for a fresh start, immersing herself in the fantasy of “Florida.” Despite her efforts, she can’t escape the harsh reality of heartbreak.

1. But Daddy I Love Him

Taylor Swift is dramatic as hell, and I love it! 

In “But Daddy I Love Him,” Taylor Swift confronts the public’s disapproval of her personal life by portraying judgmental figures. She rebels against this scrutiny, particularly from her fans, by prioritizing her happiness over conforming to the ideal image others expect of her.

“But Daddy I Love Him” sounds replenishing, multicolored, and invigorating. Travis Kelce is one lucky guy.

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SONG BY SONG BREAKDOWN

1. Fortnight (Ft. Post Malone) (4/5)

2. The Tortured Poets Department (3.5/5)

3. My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys (3/5)

4. Down Bad (4/5)

5. So Long, London (3.5/5)

6. But Daddy I Love Him (4.5/5)

7. Fresh Out the Slammer (4/5)

8. Florida!!! (Ft. Florence and the Machine) (4.5/5)

9. Guilty as Sin? (4/5)

10. Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me? (4/5)

11. I Can Fix Him (No I Really Can) (3/5)

12. Loml (2/5)

13. I Can Do It With a Broken Heart (4/5)

14. The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived (3/5)

15. The Alchemy (3.5/5)

16. Ciara Bow (3.5/5)

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CONCLUSION

(B)

Taylor Swift’s latest album, The Tortured Poets Department, delves into her emotional turmoil amidst public obsession and criticism of her personal life. While the album may feature mellow, folksy-pop melodies, it surprises listeners with bursts of hard-hitting pop in tracks like “Florida!!!” and “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart.” Despite synths, rock, and folk influences, Taylor’s core sound remains rooted in pop. However, her ability to weave her life experiences into relatable narratives, even at their most dramatic, shines through.

Similar to her previous album, Midnights, The Tortured Poets Department minimizes guest appearances, allowing Taylor’s perspective to take center stage. The album primarily focuses on her controversies and their aftermath, with guest features seamlessly complementing Taylor’s sentiments in their respective songs.

Taylor’s soft vocals invite listeners into her musical diary, while occasional power belts and airy high notes encourage reflection on past traumas. Her vocals blend seamlessly with the simple production, embracing the chaos in her life. While Taylor typically stays within her lane in pop, her exploration of dance-electro in “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” offers a refreshing change. While upbeat tracks aren’t her usual style, she should consider further experimentation with nu-disco in future albums.

The Tortured Poets Department offers a deeper insight into Taylor Swift as a person, uncovering layers of anger, sadness, and vengeance as she navigates the battle to find happiness and acceptance. Despite those who are not fans of her, Taylor’s unapologetic tone throughout the album conveys raw vulnerability, resonating with those seeking validation for their dramatic experiences. She fights tirelessly to overcome external and self-inflicted challenges, inspiring listeners who desire the same.