Metaphor | Taylor Swift Scholar

Saint Stephen I just wrote you a paean: Signifier and signified in Hey Stephen

Swift, a philosopher of language, explores the relationship between a name and what it signifies by fully exploring the meaning of 'Stephen'

Swift's Theology of Noise Music in Our Song

In Our Song, noted music theorist Taylor Swift grapples with the question “What is Music?”

Should've Said Know: Swift's Socratic Masterpiece

Swift, a Platonic philosopher, transforms a story of infidelity into a brilliant illustration of the Socratic idea that Virtue = Knowledge.

Baby I’m a Firework: Illuminating Abusive Tactics in Dear John

John relied upon darkness to cover up his misdeeds. Swift becomes a radiant source of light, illuminating not just herself, but a whole town

Hurt So Good: The Pain and Pleasure of Desire in Sparks Fly

In this literary analysis of Sparks Fly, Taylor Swift Scholar explores how Swift's thoughts about desire have evolved since her first album.

Goo All Over Me: Dirty Metaphors from the Vault

In the metaphors and similes in You All Over Me, Taylor Swift paints an increasingly grim series of portraits of herself after a breakup.

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