a thread of my thoughts and analysis on the songs on lover: a much needed thread

i forgot that you existed is the opening track, which sets the tone as carefree and upbeat. it can be relatable to people of any age. having a romantic or platonic relationship that turns sour ends in a new chapter, with lost memories.

cruel summer takes on the beginning of a new relationship. it details the secrecy and excitement while suggesting how love blooms in places that are deemed outlawed. there is imagery with the color blue, that is recurring on the album.

lover is by far one of the most romantic songs i’ve ever had the pleasure listening to. in it, swift boasts about her lover. her passion and love for her sweetheart is absolutely adorable. this song is really beautiful, and should be played at weddings.

the man takes on a new perspective, one that is often praised and revered. women are criticized for the things we do and there is a double standard. the pace between the two sexes gives one an unfair advantage.

the archer is one of the most vulnerable songs. imagine having a negative image and feeling like it’s all your fault. interpretation varies for this though. it can be a view of her relationships and how they affect her mentally. either way, this number is very powerful.

i think he knows is an uptempo bop that has one of the best bridges. “Lyrical smile, indigo eyes, hand on my thigh
We could follow the sparks, I'll drive.” i like to think of this song as her thinking her boyfriend knows she loves him and wants to be together.

in miss americana and the heartbreak prince, taylor uses a metaphor of her high school years towards the political landscape. she alludes the bad boys to the people in power. and has hope that things will change and we will overcome the obstacles in our country.

paper rings is a fun, playful number that encapsulates taylor’s love. she describes some of the memories with her lover, and how their love/marriage is so much more valuable than material things. she truly doesn’t need fancy things to express her commitment.

cornelia street references the city where her love blossomed. and she doesn’t want her relationship to end. it would be unbearable for her if she lost him. it speaks volumes for how catastrophic breakups can be. she pours her soul into writing song lyrics to confess her feelings.

death by a thousand cuts takes you on an emotional train wreck with a hard breakup. comparing it to torture and trying to ease the pain, the lyricism is spectacular in painting the picture. her anger in her voice and foreshadowing in previous songs add to the listening experience

london boy reminisces on some of the spots around the town where taylor and her mate have enjoyed visiting. this track has a catchy beat and paints a mental image of the city.

soon you’ll get better is a tearjerker that is beautifully written. taylor is so close to her mother that watching her go through health issues is absolutely devastating. she must have faith and hope that it’ll get better.

false god is a sultry, sophisticated song. the saxophone really enunciates the romanticism. swift compares her connection with her lover to a religious experience.

in you need to calm down, taylor addresses the haters. this pride anthem takes a jab at protesters who have backwards views, and taylor shares how toxic social media can be. so many people choose negativity over positivity. in the end, people just need to relax and be kind.

afterglow is an apologetic number, contrasting the joy of love that the rest of the album portrays. in relationships, there are hardships and struggles. whatever the argument was, there is still love and passion there.

ME! is a self love anthem mood booster. while being in a relationship, confidence and independence is important. ME! really is a great first lead single because love comes in all forms and aspects. we should all respect, accept, and appreciate ourselves.

it’s nice to have a friend shows the side of love that we all hope for. true friendship is wonderful. the track is innocent, gentle, and emotional. and the children’s choir in the background vocals is precious.

daylight closes out lover and it is a masterpiece. taylor sings about her past life and how this new love she has is bright and beautiful like daylight. her perception of love has changed and she wants to be defined by love.