Afleveringen
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“I can go anywhere I want, just not home” This week on AP Taylor Swift, we take on “my tears ricochet,” the gut-wrenching Track 5 from “Folklore”. From its funeral imagery to what it means for a tear to “ricochet,” we explore themes of grief, regret, and power dynamics. Whether this song is about romantic heartbreak, a friendship gone sour, or even a toxic job, we explore why this song resonates so deeply with so many, and what it means for each of us.
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Stay up to date: www.aptaylorswift.com
Mentioned in this episode:
E67: Greek Mythology
E54: Anniversary Episode
E32: Love Story Deep Dive
The Little Book of Shakespeare's Insults: The Bard's Best Barbs
Reputation album letter
Jane Eyre
The Phantom of the Opera
The Little Mermaid
Harry Potter
E56: Guest Episode - DJ Louie XIV
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:35] Introducing “my tears ricochet” and our initial thoughts
[06:51] “I didn’t have it in myself to go with grace”
[10:48] “Look at how my tears ricochet”
[17:31] “You know I didn’t want to have to haunt you”
[24:49] “When I’d fight you used to tell me I was brave”
[29:11] “And I can go anywhere I want, just not home”
[36:41] “You had to kill me but it killed you just the same”
[41:10] What might it mean for tears to ricochet?
[44:50] The purpose of the song
Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroContact us at [email protected]
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“Don’t read the last page” This week we’re joined by Rachel Feder and Tiffany Tatreau, authors of the new release Taylor Swift By the Book. In their incredible new release, Rachel and Tiffany go song by song through Taylor’s discography and discover the literature behind the lyrics, from fairy tales to tortured poets. They join us to share what inspired them to write this book, the themes and narratives that came up most often in Taylor’s music, and so much more!
Mentioned in this episode:
Taylor Swift by the Book by Rachel Feder and Tiffany Tatreau
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Florida by Lauren Groff
Shakespeare’s works, including Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet
The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
Lady of Shalott, Alfred Tennyson
The Odyssey by Homer
Mary Wollstonecraft
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by Edward Albee
The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
Works of Plato
Into the Woods by Stephen Sondheim
The Phantom of the Opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:58] Introduction to Taylor Swift by the Book
[9:36] The process of deciding what went into the book
[22:10] Taylor Swift and the poetess tradition
[37:08] Taylor Swift’s literary eras
[45:48] The songs that made Tiffany and Rachel swifties
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroContact us at [email protected]
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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“Fatefully, I tried to pick my battles 'til the battle picked me” This week, we're diving into the timeless influence of Greek mythology in Taylor Swift's music by exploring connections between Taylor's songs and classic Greek myths. Jodi finds links between Demeter and Persephone’s sorrow in The Hymn to Demeter and the Folklore song "My Tears Ricochet.” Maansi shows us how "Long Story Short” sounds like Odysseus recounting his epic journey as he returns home. And Jenn gets into the ancient story of the Labyrinth and how it reflects themes of self-discovery and transformation in "Labyrinth." Is Taylor Swift a modern-day Homer? Listen and find out!
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Stay up to date: www.aptaylorswift.com
Mentioned in this episode:
Mythology, Edith Hamilton
The Iliad, Homer
The Odyssey, Homer
Metamorphoses, Ovid
Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan
E44: Metaphors + “The Tortured Poets Department”
E22: Mastermind
Homeric Hymns
The Hymn to Demeter
Hadestown (musical)
Hercules (Disney animated film)
E54: One Year Anniversary of AP Taylor Swift
Circe, Madeline Miller
Fantasyland by Kurt Andersen
The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell
Stephen Fry’s Mythos, Heroes, and Troy
Episode Highlights:
[01:40] Introduction to Greek Mythology
[08:25] "my tears ricochet" folklore
[19:49] "long story short" evermore
[32:11] "Labyrinth" Midnights
Follow us!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“Back when you fit my poems like a perfect rhyme.” This week, we deep dive into Holy Ground from Taylor Swift’s album Red. We unpack the song’s themes of time, memory, and the contrast between New York City’s hustle and those still, reflective moments where we realize what truly matters. Is Holy Ground a nostalgic ode to a past relationship, a metaphor for personal growth, or both? Listen to find out!
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
Lauren Rowe @rowe.reads on Instagram
Hamilton
Scott Pilgrim vs The World
Let Go, Avril Lavigne Album
Avril Lavigne conspiracy theory
Fantasyland, Kurt Anderson
Tribeca’s Holy Ground in the 1700s
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:27] Reminiscing on our romance novels episode
[02:50] “I was reminiscing just the other day”
[08:40] “Back when you fit in my poems like a perfect rhyme”
[14:41] “Right there where we stood was holy ground”
[22:25] “And for the first time I had something to lose”
[32:22] “And I see your face in every crowd”
[34:48] “tonight I’m gonna dance for all that we’ve been through”
[44:15] The purpose of the song
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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“I see Sparks Fly whenever you smile.” This week on AP Taylor Swift, we’re thrilled to welcome book content creator and Bookish Bestie Lauren Rowe (@rowe.reads) as we explore the romance novel-worthy worlds of Taylor Swift’s songs. We learn how Lauren reviews books and the connections between Taylor’s songs and romance novels. Then we break down the romantic themes and tropes in Sparks Fly, Holy Ground, Starlight, and Dress, drawing connections between Taylor's storytelling and beloved romance novel tropes like forbidden love, second chances, and enemies to lovers. We explore why Taylor’s songs resonate so powerfully with romance readers, how she creates vivid narratives through her lyrics, and why Swifties and romance lovers alike connect so deeply with stories of love, loss, and longing.
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
Lauren Rowe @rowe.reads on Instagram
A Beautiful Work in Progress by Mirna Valerio
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
E32: Love Story
A Cinderella Story
The Notebook
Always Be My Maybe
The Prince & Me
The Seven-Year Slip by Ashley Poston
The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston
It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover
Bridgerton by Julia Quinn
Sunday Morning by Jewel E. Ann
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
You’ve Got Mail
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:41] Introducing Lauren Rowe @rowe.reads
[07:29] How Lauren reviews books
[12:55] Parallels between Taylor’s marketing and book series marketing
[17:00] The song that made Lauren a Swiftie
[19:16] “Sparks Fly” Speak Now
[24:44] “Holy Ground” Red
[32:00] “Starlight” Red
[38:40] “Dress” Reputation
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“I've got some tricks up my sleeve, takes one to know one.” This week, we’re deep diving a fan request, “Cowboy like me” (evermore 2020). We go line by line, exploring the use of stylistic choices like starting with the word 'and.' Join us as we delve into the narrative structure of the song and attempt to understand the characters in the song, debate the fun factor of airport bars, and try to figure out exactly what exactly Taylor means when she says “cowboy like me.”
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
E19: Show & Tell - Satire
Robin Hood
The Life and Adventures of Joquin Murieta by John Rollin (TW: violence, violence against women)
The Lone Ranger
White Collar
***
Episode Highlights:
[1:20] Introduction to “cowboy like me”
[3:30] “tennis court covered up with a tent-like thing”
[9:18] “sitting in an airport bar”
[13:45] Digging into the cowboy imagery
[22:33] The repeated stanzas
[30:25] “forever is the sweetest con”
[34:55] Getting into the purpose
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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“We can plant a memory garden.” This week we have a show and tell episode on garden songs, exploring the theme of gardens and flowers across Taylor Swift’s lyrics. From the haunting imagery in Ivy to the rich symbolism of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon in Cowboy Like Me, and the many different flowers in The Great War, we dig (get it?) into how Taylor uses garden and flower metaphors to evoke ideas of romance, loyalty, and loss.
Mentioned in this episode:
E7: S&T-Ecocriticism
The Bible
Lady Chatterley's Lover by D.H. Lawrence
The Secret Garden by Frances Burnett
The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde
E32: DD-Love Story
Gardens of Babylon Photo 1
Gardens of Babylon Photo 2
Mrs. Dalloway by Virginia Woolf
Women in Love by D.H. Lawrence
Crimson Clover
Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
In Flanders Fields by John McCrae
The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
The New Look on Apple TV+
***
Episode Highlights:
[03:56] “ivy” evermore
[16:42] “cowboy like me” evermore
[28:00] “The Great War” Midnights (3am Edition)
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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Surprise! We have another exciting guest episode for you this week where we chat with Laura Bankers, who is a swiftie, book-lover, and an incredible artist who makes the cutest swiftie and bookish-themed stickers. Tune in to hear us talk about her business, inspiration, and community, and stick around for a special spin-the-wheel game at the end!
You can find Laura on Instagram with the handle @little.owlet.art, through her monthly newsletter, and on Etsy through her store LittleOwletArt.
Mentioned in this episode:
@Little.owlet.art on InstagramHarry Potter series by JK RowlingAugust Days on EtsyJane Eyre by Charlotte BronteGreat Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldThe Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel HawthorneAnna Karenina by Leo TolstoyCinderellaPride and Prejudice by Jane AustenPrincess Diaries 2Happy Place by Emily Henry Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. SchwabFunny Story by Emily HenryDuma Key by Stephen KingRomeo & Juliet by William ShakespeareThe Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa GregorySix The MusicalCatcher in the Rye by J.D. SalingerThe Truth About Forever by Sarah DessenA Cinderella StoryThe Poisonwood Bible by Barbara KingsolverThe OCAtonement by Ian McEwanLittle Women by Louisa May AlcottWuthering Heights by Emily BronteThe Night Circus by Erin MorgensternAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:15] Meet Laura Bankers of LittleOwletArt
[5:13] Inspiration process
[7:30] TS Collab Wishlist
[11:45] Changed by the fandom
[13:22] Creating a community
[18:52] Books & Taylor Swift
[21:16] Game time! Spin the Wheel
[40:17] The song that made Laura a Swiftie
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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"You don’t get to tell me about sad.” This week, we deep dive into Taylor Swift's song “Who's Afraid of Little Old Me” from The Tortured Poets Department. For this TTPD and Eras Tour favorite, we unpack the song’s references to fame, power dynamics, and female identity. We explore how this song brings up our experiences of passive-aggressive workplaces, and being asked to change our behavior to fit other’s expectations. It’s a meaty episode–listen and let us know what you think!
Mentioned in this episode:
Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Edward Albee
Apex Predator, Mean Girls
E23: Mad Women
The Great Gatsby
Pirates of the Caribbean
Les Misérables
Wicked
Episode Highlights:
[01:52] How we do a deep dive
[03:19] Unpacking references in the song’s title
[07:49] “The who’s who of who’s that”
[13:01] “If you wanted me dead, you should have just said”
[18:56] “So I leap from the gallows”
[21:20] “At all costs, keep your good name”
[32:25] “So tell me everything is not about me”
[37:57] "That's why you're still singing along"
[42:39] The purpose of the song
[52:00] Listener homework!
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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“They’re burning all the witches even if you aren’t one.” Happy spooky season! This week, we dive into the topic of witches. From historical midwives to fantasy heroines, Taylor’s music has a little bit for everyone. In this episode, we look at the fiery witch imagery in “I Did Something Bad,” explore the visual choice of witchiness in “willow,” and discuss the fantasy of owning your power in “Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me.” With plenty of Harry Potter references for all, this episode is perfect for the inner Hermione in us all. Because at the end of the day, aren’t we all just powerful witches who are also kind of giant nerds?
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
E7: Ecocriticism
E23: Mad Women
E19: Satire
Pride and Prejudice
Witches, Midwives, and Nurses: A History of Women Healers by Barbara Ehrenreich and Deirdre English
Harry Potter
Willow Music Video
Outlander
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
E9: Fall Songs
Les Miserables
The Crucible
The Power, Naomi Alderman
Shit Cassandra Saw, Gwen E. Kirby
Jennifer’s Body
Great Expectations
Invisible Women, Caroline Criado-Perez
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:15] Introduction to Witches
[07:34] I Did Something Bad - “They’re burning all the witches even if you aren’t one”
[19:36] Willow - “Wait for the signal and I’ll meet you after dark”
[34:30] Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me - “So I leap from the gallows and I levitate down your street”
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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“Lately I’ve been dressing for revenge.” This week we deep dive Eras tour favorite Vigilante Shit from Taylor Swift’s album “Midnights.” We discuss the meaning of “vigilante,” how the song challenges traditional gender roles, and the many potential pop culture references and parallels that make the song fit into the broader cultural narrative of women reclaiming their power. Is "Vigilante Shit" a feminist anthem or just a really fun revenge fantasy? Listen and find out!
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
E58: Show and Tell - Style
The Little Rascals
The Lion King
Circe by Madeline Miller
The Incredibles
Mean Girls
John Tucker Must Die
Pretty Little Liars
Chicago
White Collar
Hamilton
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:20] “Draw the cat eye sharp enough to kill a man”
[06:45] “They say looks can kill and I might try”
[12:24] “Don’t get sad, get even”
[21:36] “Ladies always rise above…”
[30:10] “I don’t dress for villains”
[38:20] The purpose of the song
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“We never go out of style.” This week we have a very special guest joining us to talk about Style. Yes, we’re interviewing Queen of Taylor Swift Style herself Sarah Chapelle! Sarah joins us to talk about her new book Taylor Swift Style, how her blog and commentary have evolved over the years, and how Taylor’s fashion and music work in tandem to communicate a message. Then we dive into a show and tell featuring three songs that address the idea of style in one way or another: “Style”, “Dress”, and “Vigilante Shit”.
Mentioned in this episode:
TaylorSwiftStyle.com
Taylor Swift Style Book
@TaylorSwiftStyled on Instagram
@taylorswiftstyle.com on TikTok
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Selkie Dress
“Call It What You Want” Necklace
Gucci Scarf
Taylor Swift Style Book Tour
Dame Mary Quant
Dressed to Kill Etymology
Elizabeth Holmes “So Many Thoughts” Blog
The Man Repeller
Invisible Women
History of the Cat Eye Liner
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:12] Interview with Sarah Chapelle of Taylor Swift Style
[31:50] “Style” 1989 (Taylor’s Version)
[44:00] “Dress” Reputation
[55:59] “Vigilante Shit” Midnights
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“It’s just a question!” In this week’s episode, we do a deep dive into the ultimate rhetorical question song from Taylor Swift - “Question…?” from Midnights. We get into our own questions, such as who is the “I,” the “you,” and the “her” in the story? What were the miscommunications? Was this a one-night stand or a longer situationship? While we never get any answers to the questions asked within the song, you'll have to tune in to see whether we answer our own questions about “Question…?”
Mentioned in this episode:
“Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
The Ugly Truth (film)
Ted Lasso (tv show)
Notting Hill (film)
“Sk8er Boi” by Avril Lavigne
Bridgerton Season Two
Daisy Jones and the Six (book)
Daisy Jones and the Six (tv show)
Episode Highlights:
[00:30] Introduction to “Question…?”
[02:13] The characters in the song
[04:30] Starting with “I remember”
[09:17] Moving into the present tense
[16:20] The chorus of “Question…?”
[29:37] “Half moon eyes” and verse 2
[39:28] Politics and gender roles
[44:52] Who is “her” in this song
[56:06] The purpose of the song
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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In our first guest episode this season, we welcome DJ Louie XIV of Pop Pantheon to talk all things pop and Taylor Swift. DJ Louie discusses how he analyzes pop music in his podcast, Pop Pantheon, and delves into Taylor Swift’s unique role within the pop music landscape. We discuss Taylor’s cultural impact, her mastery of storytelling, and the influence of Jack Antonoff on her music.
Mentioned in this episode:
Pop Pantheon Podcast
Follow DJ Louie XIV on Instagram
Follow DJ Louie XIV on Twitter
Follow Pop Pantheon on Instagram
E31: Shakespeare
E32: Love Story
***
Episode Highlights:
[4:04] Why is pop music so fun to overanalyze?
[6:11] How Taylor Swift fits into the pop music Landscape
[15:25] Taylor Swift as “basic savant”
[27:30] Folklore Evermore Reset
[30:00] Taylor’s artistic evolutions through her albums
[34:28] The Jack Antonoff Partnerships
[36:44] Tortured Poets and Lyrical Editing
[41:07] The pop music formula
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
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“…Are you ready for it?” No but really, are you? Today we’re talking rhetorical questions. Why does Taylor use them? Does she use them expecting an answer? Are those a rhetorical question? (We’ll stop now…) We’re covering “Is It Over Now?” from 1989 (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault), “...Ready for it” from Reputation, and “Question…?” from Midnights. Tune in to see if we get any answers!
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Mentioned in this episode:
Types of Rhetorical Questions
The Office
Parks and Recreation
Law and Order
Legally Blonde
What is a Rhetorical Question? A rhetorical question is an inquiry that ends in a question mark but is asked for effect rather than to elicit an answer. It’s often used in persuasive writing but is also common in everyday conversation.
Types of Rhetorical Questions:
Anthypophora (hypophora): Involves asking a question in order to answer it immediately. In our animal studies episode, Jenn asked, “Did I make this song about something that personally interests me? Sure did”Epiplexis: A rhetorical device in which one asks a question in order to admonish rather than receive an answer. Think Michael Scott, “why are you the way that you are?”Erotesis: Positions the question in a way that elicits a strong reaction, either in agreement or rejection. However, this type of rhetorical question typically anticipates a negative response. it’s usually impossible to contradict.”How can segregation exist in the true Body of Christ?” - MLK***
Episode Highlights:
[01:20] What are rhetorical questions?
[06:57] “Is It Over Now?” 1989 (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault)
[26:39] “...Ready for it” Reputation
[44:48] “Question…?” Midnights
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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Can we always be this close? We’re celebrating our first anniversary! This week we’re reminiscing about our first year of this podcast by talking about some of our favorite podcast moments in Year 1, and the songs we surprisingly haven’t covered yet. And we’re responding to listener requests, diving into specific lyrics requested by our dear listeners.
Mentioned in this episode:
Sisyphean task
Bookshop.org/shop/APTS
The Daily, “The Year of Taylor Swift”
E42: Ecocriticism + TTPD
Animal Theory Substack
E9: Fall Songs (aka Cornelia Street Moment)
E24: Deep Dive - Right Where You Left Me
E51: All Too Well (10 Minute Version) - Three Ways
All Too Well (10 Minute Version) Short Film
“Reformed Rake” trope
E33: Animal Theory
You Know How to Ball, I Know Aristotle on TikTok
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:38] Songs we surprisingly haven’t covered yet
[08:46] “My Tears Ricochet” Bridge
[19:20] “Robin”
[22:51] “Right Where You Left Me” pre-chorus
[26:45] “When your Brooklyn broke my skin and bones” All Too Well 10 Minute Version
[32:36] “Do you miss the rogue who coaxed you into paradise and left you there” Coney Island
[38:28] “We can’t make any promises now can we babe?” Delicate
[44:28] Season 2 sneak peek
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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"I'm so in love that I acted insane." This week we dive into “The Way I Loved You.” One guy’s screaming and fighting, the other is sensible and incredible. We go line-by-line to identify who’s involved in this love triangle, the emotions behind the narrator’s dilemma, and why the narrator doesn’t seem to want the sensible, incredible, comfortable partner. Is this a lyrical analysis or a relationship analysis? Listen and find out!
Mentioned in this episode:
E52: Psychoanalytic Theory
The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks
E25: Pride and Prejudice
Wuthering Heights by Charlotte Brontë
Matchmaker Maria
Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
E5: Toxic Relationships
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:53] Rhetorical triangle reminder
[02:18] Who are the characters in the song?
[08:38] The role of the love triangle
[13:29] Who’s acting insane?
[19:12] “I’m perfectly fine” “I’m comfortable”
[26:28] “He can’t see the smile I’m faking”
[31:38] “You were frustrating, intoxicating”
[38:14] The purpose of the song
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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"I have this dream where I get older but just never wiser." In this episode, we use Psychoanalytic Theory to unpack the deeper meanings behind three of Taylor's songs: "That's The Way I Loved You," "Look What You Made Me Do," and "Anti-Hero." From our personal experiences to Freud’s writings, we explore how Taylor’s lyrics tap into the subconscious. Get ready to dive into the psyche of Taylor Swift's music!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sigmund Freud Reader
Civilization and Its Discontents
Carl Jung
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Miss Americana
Lizzie McGuire
Switched on Pop: Beyonce’s Country
E31: Show and Tell - Shakespeare
Victorian man meme
Anti-Hero Music Video (featuring Mary Elizabeth Ellis a.k.a. “The Waitress” from It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia)
Joseph Campbell: Hero With A Thousand Faces
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:57] Intro to Psychoanalytic Theory
[09:28] “The Way I Loved You” from Fearless
[24:04] “Look What You Made Me Do” from reputation
[44:29] “Anti-Hero” from Midnights
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroAffiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
This podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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It was rare, I was there, I remember it. To kick off our second year (sophomore year?) of AP Taylor Swift, we’re tackling a song we have wanted to tackle since the very beginning: “All Too Well (10 Minute Version).” And to stay consistent with our Show & Tell format, we’re each bringing you a different lens through which we analyzed this song! Join us as we introduce you to narratology, revisit ecocriticism, and look for poetic repetition in this song to understand what makes it the epic favorite that we all know and love.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Last Five Years
E7: Ecocriticism
E9: Fall Songs
E27: Poetic Repetition
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
Episode Highlights:
[00:40] Our topic for the day: ATWTMV 3-ways
[1:27] A new lens: narratology
[13:03] A literary theory: Ecocriticism
[30:35] A literary device: Poetic Repetition
[44:40] Bringing all the theories together
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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“So Long London.” In our final Summer School episode, we say so long to summer as we revisit Episode 39: Cities within “The Tortured Poets Department.” London, Destin, Manhattan, Los Angeles–we explore these cities' role in the album and why Taylor Swift may have chosen these specific cities to tell her stories.
Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 39: Show and Tell - Cities (Spotify | Apple)
A Very Potter Musical
Fry’s English Delight: Metaphors
“Florida,” Lauren Groff
Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic, Alison Bechdel
Fun Home: The Musical
Suffs
Affiliate Codes:
Krowned Krystals - krownedkrystals.com use code APTS at checkout for 10% off!
Libro.fm - Looking for an audiobook? Check out our Libro.fm playlist and use code APTS30 for 30% off books found here tinyurl.com/aptslibro
***
Episode Highlights:
[01:41] Introduction to Cities
[02:48] “So Long London”
[12:56] “Florida!!!”
[22:57] “Clara Bow”
[32:42] Summer School Extra Credit: “The Manuscript”
Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe
Follow us on social!
TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwiftInstagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwiftYouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwiftLink Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswiftBookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/aptsLibro.fm → tinyurl.com/aptslibroThis podcast is neither related to nor endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. Intro music produced by Scott Zadig aka Scotty Z.
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