Patti Smith, a highly respected author, singer-songwriter, and poet, was recently mentioned in Taylor Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” In the title track of the album, Swift sings the lyrics, “You’re not Dylan Thomas, I’m not Patti Smith / This ain’t the Chelsea Hotel / We’re modern idiots,” which has sparked many fan theories. Smith herself responded to being name-checked in the song on social media, expressing gratitude for being mentioned alongside the great Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. The significance of Smith being mentioned in the song is thought to be related to her magnetic stage presence and poetic talent, in contrast with the self-destructive image associated with Thomas.
The song is believed to have been written about singer Matty Healy, whom Swift briefly dated in 2023. Through the lyrics comparing Healy to Thomas and herself to Smith, Swift seems to be critiquing the idea of romanticizing self-destructive behavior in artists and the desire to distance herself from such a narrative. The mention of the Chelsea Hotel, where both Smith and Thomas resided at some point, further adds depth to the references in the song. Harvard professor Stephanie Burt, who teaches a class on Swift, explained that invoking Smith and Thomas in the song serves to highlight different aspects of artistic talent and personal struggles.
Healy, frontman for The 1975, is suspected to be the subject of several other tracks on Swift’s album, along with emotional songs about her ex-boyfriend of six years, Joe Alwyn, and sweet tracks about her current lover, Travis Kelce. The complex emotions and personal experiences reflected in Swift’s songwriting have resonated with listeners and garnered praise for her ability to authentically capture the highs and lows of relationships. Swift’s willingness to address personal themes in her music and explore different facets of love and heartbreak has solidified her reputation as a versatile and introspective artist.
The mention of Patti Smith in Taylor Swift’s song has generated interest and speculation among fans and music enthusiasts, sparking discussions about the significance of the literary references and themes in the lyrics. As a legendary figure in the world of music and poetry, Smith’s inclusion in the song adds a layer of depth and complexity to the narrative being explored by Swift. The exploration of artistry, self-destructive tendencies, and personal growth in the song reflects Swift’s own journey as an artist and her evolving creative process.
Ethan Hawke and Josh Charles, who made cameos in Taylor Swift’s music video for the song “The Tortured Poets Department,” have shared their honest opinions of the singer and her work. Both actors praised Swift for her talent, creativity, and ability to connect with her audience through her music. Swift’s collaborations with acclaimed artists and celebrities further demonstrate her reach and influence in the entertainment industry, showcasing her ability to collaborate with diverse talents and bring her artistic vision to life. The continued success of Swift’s music and her ability to evolve as an artist suggest that her impact on the music industry will endure for years to come.
