Taylor Swift’s surprise album, folklore, released in the midst of 2020, was a seismic shift for the pop superstar. Moving away from the polished pop of Lover, folklore embraced an indie-folk sound, captivating fans and critics alike with its introspective lyrics and atmospheric melodies. This wasn’t just another album; it was an immersive experience into storytelling and raw emotion. In this track-by-track exploration, we’ll delve into each song on folklore, uncovering the narratives and nuances that make this album a standout in Taylor Swift’s discography.
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Released without prior announcement, folklore was a welcome surprise during a challenging year. Its introspective nature resonated deeply with listeners navigating the uncertainties of the time. The album’s title itself, folklore, hints at the collection of stories and myths passed down through generations, setting the stage for the narrative-driven songwriting within. Swift described the album as a collection of “songs and stories that flowed like a stream of consciousness,” further emphasizing the intimate and personal nature of the project.
This album marks a significant departure in sound and style for Taylor Swift. Known for her pop anthems and country roots, folklore ventures into a more alternative and folk-inspired territory. The production is deliberately understated, focusing on acoustic instruments, soft vocals, and evocative soundscapes. This shift allows the lyrical content to take center stage, showcasing Swift’s evolution as a songwriter and storyteller. Let’s embark on a journey through each track of folklore and unpack the magic within.
Track-by-Track Exploration of Folklore Songs
1. the 1
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Opening folklore is “the 1,” a piano-driven ballad that immediately sets the album’s melancholic and reflective tone. This track isn’t a typical upbeat opener; instead, it gently invites listeners into a world of reminiscence and “what ifs.” Lyrically, “the 1” explores the lingering thoughts about a past relationship and the paths not taken. Swift’s vocals are soft and intimate, drawing you into her personal reflections. The song captures the universal experience of looking back on a significant relationship and pondering how things might have unfolded differently. It’s a perfect introduction to the album’s themes of memory, nostalgia, and introspection.
Listen to “the 1” on Spotify | YouTube
2. cardigan
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“Cardigan,” the lead single from folklore, delves into the complexities of young love and memory. It’s the first song in what Taylor Swift described as a teenage love triangle within the album, told from the perspective of Betty. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of innocent romance and the often overlooked wisdom of youth. The metaphor of a cardigan is central to the song, symbolizing comfort, familiarity, and being cherished. “Cardigan” evokes the bittersweet feeling of looking back on a youthful relationship with both fondness and a touch of melancholy. The gentle melody and nostalgic lyrics made “cardigan” an instant fan favorite and a key song in understanding folklore‘s narrative depth.
Listen to “cardigan” on Spotify | YouTube
3. the last great american dynasty
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Shifting gears slightly, “the last great american dynasty” is one of the more upbeat tracks on folklore, though still rooted in storytelling. This song narrates the intriguing life of Rebekah Harkness, a socialite who once owned Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island mansion. The lyrics detail Harkness’s flamboyant and often controversial life, earning her the moniker “the maddest woman this town has ever seen.” Swift draws parallels between Harkness’s story and her own experiences with public perception and scrutiny. The song’s catchy melody and narrative lyrics make it a standout, showcasing Swift’s ability to weave compelling stories within her music, drawing connections between historical figures and her own life.
Listen to “the last great american dynasty” on Spotify | YouTube
4. exile (feat. Bon Iver)
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“Exile,” featuring Bon Iver, is a deeply emotional duet that explores the aftermath of a breakup from two contrasting perspectives. The song is characterized by its slow tempo and melancholic atmosphere, reminiscent of a dramatic dialogue. Bon Iver’s distinctive vocals blend seamlessly with Swift’s, creating a powerful and heartbreaking portrayal of two people grappling with the end of a relationship. The lyrics are raw and vulnerable, capturing the pain of separation and the feeling of being cut off from someone’s life, like an exile. “Exile” is a masterclass in vocal collaboration and emotional storytelling, solidifying its place as a fan favorite on folklore.
Listen to “exile” on Spotify | YouTube
5. my tears ricochet
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Track 5 on a Taylor Swift album is often reserved for the most emotionally charged song, and “my tears ricochet” lives up to this reputation. This powerful and haunting track is open to multiple interpretations, with many believing it to be about Swift’s conflict over her masters. The lyrics explore themes of betrayal, loss, and the pain of watching someone who caused you harm benefit from your downfall. The song uses vivid imagery, including the perspective of a ghost at her own wake, to convey the depth of emotional devastation. “my tears ricochet” is a lyrical and vocal tour-de-force, showcasing Swift’s ability to channel profound pain into art.
Listen to “my tears ricochet” on Spotify | YouTube
6. mirrorball
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“Mirrorball” is an introspective and vulnerable track that delves into themes of self-perception and the desire for validation. The central metaphor of the mirrorball represents the act of reflecting light and adapting to different situations, suggesting a chameleon-like quality in wanting to please others. The lyrics explore social anxiety and the pressure to constantly change oneself to fit in or be loved. Whether interpreted romantically or personally, “mirrorball” resonates with its honesty and vulnerability, capturing the universal feeling of seeking acceptance and struggling with self-doubt. The dreamy melody and relatable lyrics make it a standout moment on folklore.
Listen to “mirrorball” on Spotify | YouTube
7. seven
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“Seven” is a tender and poignant song told from the perspective of a child, reflecting on a childhood friendship and hinting at a friend’s difficult home life. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, capturing the innocence and protective instincts of childhood. The song touches on themes of family issues and the desire to shield loved ones from harm, expressed through a child’s imaginative lens (“And we can be pirates”). “Seven” is a beautifully crafted song that evokes nostalgia and empathy, highlighting Swift’s ability to tell stories from diverse perspectives and create emotionally resonant narratives.
Listen to “seven” on Spotify | YouTube
8. august
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“August” is the second song in the teenage love triangle narrative on folklore, offering the perspective of “the other woman” in the story. This track encapsulates the fleeting and passionate nature of a summer fling. The lyrics are filled with longing and a sense of bittersweet nostalgia, knowing that the relationship was always temporary and ultimately unsustainable (“‘Cause you weren’t mine to lose”). The production is dreamy and atmospheric, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of ephemeral romance and wistful reflection. “August” is a standout track that perfectly captures the essence of summer love and its inevitable end.
Listen to “august” on Spotify | YouTube
9. this is me trying
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“This is me trying” is a deeply relatable and honest song about vulnerability, setbacks, and the effort to overcome personal struggles. The lyrics speak to the experience of facing failures and insecurities, yet still striving to improve and move forward. It’s an anthem for anyone who has felt overwhelmed by challenges but continues to try. The song’s raw honesty and emotional resonance make it particularly impactful, offering a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. “This is me trying” is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-acceptance.
Listen to “this is me trying” on Spotify | YouTube
10. illicit affairs
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“Illicit affairs” delves into the complexities and hidden emotions of infidelity. This track explores the nuances of a forbidden relationship, focusing on the secrecy, mistakes, and emotional risks involved. Told from the perspective of “the other woman,” the lyrics convey a sense of desperation and a willingness to risk everything for a love that is inherently flawed. “Illicit affairs” showcases Swift’s mature songwriting, tackling complex themes with sensitivity and depth, providing a nuanced look at the darker side of love and relationships.
Listen to “illicit affairs” on Spotify | YouTube
11. invisible string
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In contrast to the darker themes of some other tracks, “invisible string” is a heartwarming and optimistic love song, widely believed to be about Taylor Swift’s relationship with Joe Alwyn. The song uses the metaphor of an “invisible string” to represent fate and destiny, suggesting that unseen forces guided them to find each other. The lyrics are filled with personal details and literary references, adding depth and intimacy to the song. “invisible string” stands out as a sweet and tender moment on folklore, celebrating love and connection with a touch of whimsy.
Listen to “invisible string” on Spotify | YouTube
12. mad woman
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“Mad woman” is a powerful and angsty track that explores themes of female rage, societal double standards, and revenge. The song is told from the perspective of a woman ostracized by her community, drawing parallels to historical “madwomen” and challenging sexist tropes. Many interpret the song as Swift’s commentary on her own public image and battles against industry figures. “Mad woman” is a raw and unapologetic expression of anger and frustration, highlighting societal biases against women who dare to express these emotions. Its intensity and lyrical content make it a standout track that sparks important conversations.
Listen to “mad woman” on Spotify | YouTube
13. epiphany
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“Epiphany” is a poignant and deeply moving tribute to frontliners and essential workers, inspired by Taylor Swift’s grandfather’s military service and the COVID-19 pandemic. The song draws parallels between the experiences of soldiers and healthcare professionals, highlighting the trauma and sacrifices they endure. The lyrics are structured like a hymn, creating a sense of reverence and emotional weight. “Epiphany” is a powerful and timely song that resonates deeply, especially in the context of global events, serving as a heartfelt acknowledgement of heroism and resilience.
Listen to “epiphany” on Spotify | YouTube
14. betty
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“Betty” is the final song in the teenage love triangle trilogy, told from the perspective of James, who seeks forgiveness from Betty after betraying her trust. Musically, “betty” is one of the most upbeat tracks on folklore, bringing in country-folk influences. The lyrics detail James’s remorse and guilt, and his attempt to win Betty back. “Betty” is a compelling narrative song that adds another layer to the love triangle storyline, showcasing Swift’s storytelling versatility by adopting a male perspective and crafting a song that is both apologetic and hopeful.
Listen to “betty” on Spotify | YouTube
15. peace
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“Peace” is an experimental and deeply personal track where Taylor Swift reflects on the challenges of maintaining a relationship amidst fame and public scrutiny. The lyrics express a desire for lasting love while acknowledging the inherent difficulties in offering “peace” due to her public life and the constant dramas surrounding it. The song is both a declaration of love and a candid admission of the complexities of her world. “Peace” is a vulnerable and introspective song that offers a glimpse into the personal struggles that fame can impose on relationships.
Listen to “peace” on Spotify | YouTube
16. hoax
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Closing folklore is “hoax,” a devastatingly beautiful piano ballad that explores the lingering pain of a toxic relationship. The lyrics depict a relationship that has ended but continues to exert a powerful emotional pull, leaving the narrator questioning and still caring despite the toxicity. “Hoax” is a raw and vulnerable conclusion to the album, leaving listeners with a sense of melancholy and introspection. The song’s haunting melody and poignant lyrics make it a powerful and unforgettable closing statement to the folklore journey.
Listen to “hoax” on Spotify | YouTube
The complete tracklist of Taylor Swift’s “folklore” album.
Folklore as a whole is a masterpiece of storytelling, showcasing Taylor Swift’s growth and versatility as an artist. From its indie-folk sound to its deeply personal and narrative-driven lyrics, the album offers a rich and immersive listening experience. It’s an album that invites repeated listens, with each track revealing new layers of meaning and emotion. Whether you’re a long-time Swiftie or new to her music, folklore is an album that deserves to be explored and appreciated for its artistry and emotional depth.
Stream the full album on Spotify and YouTube Music!
Purchase the album: folklore (album)
What are your favorite folklore songs? Which tracks resonate with you the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
