AP Taylor Swift

"You're on the phone with your girlfriend, she's upset..." Welcome to Season 3 of AP Taylor Swift! What happens when we can't trust the person telling the story? In this week's Show & Tell episode, we explore the concept of unreliable narrators through three Taylor Swift songs that demonstrate how perspective shapes truth. From teenage crush confessions to post-breakup rants to defiant love declarations, we examine how Taylor uses narrative techniques that make us question what's really happening beneath the surface of these seemingly straightforward stories. Subscribe for free to get episode updates or upgrade to paid to get our After School premium content: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe. After School subscribers get monthly bonus episodes, exclusive content, and early access to help shape future topics!   Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com Mentioned in this episode: The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger Gone Girl, Gillian Flynn The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Mark Haddon Atonement, Ian McEwan Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen After Party (Apple TV+ series) The Residence (Netflix)  How I Met Your Mother (TV series) E32: Love Story Deep Dive Episode Highlights: [01:22] Introduction to Unreliable Narrators [08:47] "You Belong With Me" (Fearless, 2008) [19:55] "Mr. Perfectly Fine" (Fearless Taylor's Version, 2021) [26:15] "But Daddy I Love Him" (The Tortured Poets Department, 2024)   Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com  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.

"It was rare, I was there, I remember it." As part of our summer vacation series, we're re-airing one of our most requested episodes! This was the song we'd wanted to analyze since day one: "All Too Well (10 Minute Version)." This isn't just any song analysis—it's a literary deep dive worthy of Taylor's most devastating masterpiece. We're each bringing you a different academic lens to understand what makes this 10-minute epic the storytelling tour de force that has Swifties screaming every word. From narrative structure to nature imagery to the hypnotic power of repetition, discover why this song isn't just a breakup anthem—it's a work of art that rivals the greatest literary achievements. Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com Mentioned in this episode: The Last Five Years E7: Ecocriticism E9: Fall Songs E27: Poetic Repetition Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway Begin Again 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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  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.

"I haven't decided yet, but I'mgonnagetyouback." From ancient Greek epics to Mean Girls, revenge has evolved dramatically in literature, and Taylor Swift's discography is no exception. This week on AP Taylor Swift, we explore how Taylor serves revenge with a smile, examining the sweet saccharine fantasy of "Speak Now," the cutting indifference of "I Forgot That You Existed," and the delicious ambiguity of "I'm Gonna Get You Back." Whether it's ruining a wedding or simply moving on, we dive into how revenge fantasies reveal character, power dynamics, and the satisfying evolution from teenage retaliation to adult agency. Because sometimes the best revenge is living well; and sometimes it's writing a song about forgetting someone exists. Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com    Mentioned in this episode:  The Iliad, Homer The Princess Bride The Odyssey, Homer Hamlet, Shakespeare Count of Monte Cristo Wuthering Heights Mean Girls Mad Men John Tucker Must Die   *** Episode Highlights:  [00:46] All about revenge [07:48] “Speak Now,” Speak Now  [20:34] “I Forgot That You Existed,” Lover [29:44] “imgonnagetyouback,” The Tortured Poets Department   Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com  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. ***  

“You've got no reason to be afraid.” This week, we’re going line by line through a fan favorite, “You're On Your Own Kid” (Midnights 2023). Join us as we explore the title's significance and the evolution of the speaker's perspective throughout the song, touching on themes of agency, personal growth, and the role of seasons and senses in the narrative. From feeling alone to embracing one's strength and support system, this week’s detailed analysis will take you on the transformative journey that is this incredible song.   Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com    Mentioned in this episode:  Game of Thrones Kingdom of Heaven Mean Girls Cinderella, Brothers Grimm Miss Americana Little Women   Episode Highlights:  [01:08] Who is the “you” in the title? [03:09] “Summer went away,” the season of the youth [07:26] Agency and growing up [22:30] Comparing choruses [29:14] ”Something they can’t take away,” a turning point [37:45] The purpose   Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com  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.

“He was sunshine, I was midnight rain.” Dive into how Taylor Swift masterfully uses weather imagery - from romantic rain in 'Fearless' to metaphorical storms in 'Midnight Rain' and destructive hurricanes in 'Florida!!!' (feat. Florence Welch). Join us for an exploration of meteorological metaphors in Swift's songwriting across different eras.   Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com    Mentioned in this episode:  King Lear The Great Gatsby Wuthering Heights E13: Metaphors (“Clean”) E10: Deep Dive - Red Florida   ***   Episode Highlights:  [01:15] Intro to rain songs and weather [07:34] “Fearless,” Fearless [18:18] “Midnight Rain,” Midnights [30:35] “Florida!!!” The Tortured Poets Department  Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com  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.

“I’ll show you every version of yourself tonight” In this episode, we delve into Taylor Swift's song 'mirrorball' from Folklore, exploring its themes of identity, reflection, and the performance of femininity. We discuss the significance of the mirror ball as an object that always shows a reflection. We also touch on the song's structure, the emotional nature of the lyrics, and the implications of the 'hush' in the chorus. It’s a loaded episode that takes us to the societal pressures on women to perform and ultimately leads us to ask the question, “are we all mirrorballs?”   Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com    ***   Episode Highlights:  [01:15] How we do a deep dive [01:33] What is a mirrorball? [08:41] “You’ll find me on my tallest tiptoes” [15:01] “I can change everything about me to fit in”  [23:10] “Hush” [27:38] The bridge [39:38] The purpose   Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com  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.

“We can leave the Christmas lights up til January.”  Tis the damn season, so we’re bringing you a Harry Potter Holiday Special episode! This week we do a special Show and Tell episode bringing together two of our favorite topics: Harry Potter and Taylor Swift’s lyrics. Jenn imagines “Look What You Made Me Do” as Snape’s song to Voldermort. Jodi makes the case that “Lover” perfectly captures Lavender Brown’s feelings toward Ron. And Maansi envisions “You’re On Your Own Kid” as an anthem about Harry Potter’s arc throughout the entire series. Whether you’re a fan of the books, the movies, or both, we fully dork out on this episode. Join us! Subscribe to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe Stay up to date at aptaylorswift.com    Mentioned in this episode:  Harry Potter Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma  TikTok creator who does “Harry Potter Characters as Taylor Swift Songs” Jake L @Jakobcl1989   *** Episode Highlights:  [01:30] Introduction to Harry Potter and Christmas [05:25] “Look What You Made Me Do” [13:30] “Lover”  [24:08] “You’re On Your Own, Kid”   Follow AP Taylor Swift podcast on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro Contact us at aptaylorswift@gmail.com 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.

“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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro   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.

“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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  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. 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

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 Instagram Harry Potter series by JK Rowling August Days on Etsy Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy Cinderella Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen Princess Diaries 2 Happy Place by Emily Henry  Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab Funny Story by Emily Henry Duma Key by Stephen King Romeo & Juliet by William Shakespeare The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory Six The Musical Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen A Cinderella Story The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver The OC Atonement by Ian McEwan Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern 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:  [00:15] 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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  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.

"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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  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.   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

“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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro   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.

“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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.

“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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro   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.

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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  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.   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  

“…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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.

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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.

"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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.

"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/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.

“I was supposed to be sent away.” Today’s Summer School episode has us revisiting Episode 23: Mad Women (Spotify | Apple). We’ve discussed examples of mad women in Taylor’s Discography, but there hath been no woman scorned like the one in The Tortured Poet’s Department. After all, Taylor herself called it Female Rage: The Musical. But what about the other definitions of “madness” too? From the manic feeling of “Florida!!!” to the rage in “thanK you aIMee,” we get into it all in this week's episode!    Subscribe to our Substack to get new episode updates: aptaylorswift.substack.com/subscribe   Mentioned in this episode: Episode 23 - Mad Women  Frankenstein by Mary Shelley  Harry Potter  Mad Men  Florence + the Machine  Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte Crime and Punishment by Dsotevyskey  Donald Glover stand up about crazy exes    ***   Episode Highlights:  [00:50] Introducing Mad Women   [02:20] Fortnight [10:28] Florida!!! [17:00] ThanK You aIMee [29:03] I Look In People’s Windows [37:28] The Prophecy [42:50] Honorable Mentions   Follow us on social!  TikTok → tiktok.com/@APTaylorSwift Instagram → instagram.com/APTaylorSwift YouTube → youtube.com/@APTaylorSwift Link Tree →linktr.ee/aptaylorswift Bookshop.org → bookshop.org/shop/apts Libro.fm →  tinyurl.com/aptslibro 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.