We may like or dislike Taylor Swift's new album, but The Life of a Showgirl remains a fascinating project, full of unspoken words, where every word seems to conceal a message. Miss Swift has a unique ability to transport us into her world - whether we admire her or question her.
But why is this album more criticized than the others?
Is it because she's finally happy, and in love, and that comes across openly in her songs?
Twelve songs, twelve possible meanings... each open to its own interpretation.
Here are a few possible interpretations, based on our own understanding - and Swifties be warned: we could be wrong... but that's part of Taylor's magic.
The Fate of Ophelia
This Shakespearean character meets a tragic end... and Taylor thought it might be his fate too. Until someone came to his rescue. I don't need to tell you who it is... but he sure knows how to catch a football.
Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor's life of drama - between career and love - is an icon that Taylor Swift seems to echo, through her own Hollywood career and publicized love affairs. In one of her songs, she talks about how she would suffer if he left her. She doesn't want to have it all, if she doesn't have him. But who is she talking to?
Opalite
As we all know, Taylor has had many relationships that didn't last. Clearly, she didn't really believe in them anymore. In this frame, she refers to the fact that, since she met him, the sky is now the color of opal. And this semi-precious stone... it's the month of October.
And who was born in October?
A certain number 87.
Father Figure
This song deals with the relationship between a mentor and protégé, initially marked by benevolence, protection and trust. But over time, this bond turns into betrayal.
Is Taylor referring to Scooter Braun... or someone else?
What do you think?
Eldest Daugther
In this song, Taylor Swift seems to open a door: that of a defenseless love. She promises fidelity - "I'm never gonna let you down " - but above all authenticity.
Be careful, though: she might also be talking about the fact that she no longer feels the pressure to be "cool".
Now she has the freedom to be herself.
Ruin the Friendship
Ruin the Friendship has nothing to do with Blake Lively...
No, Taylor wrote it with that feeling in mind: having a crush on a friend, but never daring to say so.
And sometimes, not admitting anything means that this unspoken feeling could last forever...
She is even said to have written it for a childhood friend who sadly passed away - which gives the song a whole new depth, between regret and silent tenderness.
Actually Romantic
It's the perfect way to tell someone who doesn't like you, and who's talking behind your back, that it's almost flattering to give you so much time and energy.
But who is Taylor talking about? We'll leave you to speculate.
In any case, this song is simply a little gem.
Wi$h Li$t
Wi$h Li$t talks about what some people want: fame, money, glamorous moments.
But deep down, it's her real wish list - the opposite of all that. In it, Taylor expresses her desire for a peaceful life, love... and maybe even children with her lover.
Of course, as always, she leaves us with several question marks.
But no doubt she's subtly referring to her own desires... and to her history with Travis.
Will we be seeing Kelswift babies soon?
Wood
Wood is said to be talking about her new relationship, but not hiding behind superstitions.
Instead of "touching wood" to preserve her happiness, Taylor seems to be saying she won't this time.
She believes in what she's experiencing, without fear of losing it.
It's not a fragile love, but an assumed, real love.
She no longer hides behind fear or caution - she chooses, at last, to trust.
What do you think?
Cancelled!
This song leaves some doubt as to who Taylor is really talking to. One thing is certain: she defends her friends, the ones who are constantly smeared on social networks.
At least, if the lyrics are anything to go by.
Is she talking about Blake Lively?
Or those who gravitate around her and suffer public malice... like Brittany Mahomes?
Honey
You know when someone calls you by a little name like honey, but with a haughty tone or a hint of contempt?
Taylor has experienced this more than once.
But she came to understand that these words could also have a positive meaning.
Thanks to love, she discovered that between the right lips, that same word can become soft, tender...like a heart-warming happiness.
The Life of A Showgirl
The Life of a Showgirl tells the story of a young aspiring dancer, fascinated by the glamour of an artist she admires, Kitty.
At the end of the show, bouquet in hand, she confesses her dream of living the same glittering life.
But her idol's response is far from fairytale: being a showgirl comes at a price.
Behind the glitter lies loneliness, rivalry and sacrifice.
As the song progresses, the fan seems to take the place of her idol... only to discover that, in the spotlight, you become as much admired as hated.
This is the first song between Taylor and Sabrina Carpenter.