Patti Smith expressed her gratitude for being mentioned in Taylor Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” which references her along with Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. Smith shared photos of herself reading a book by Thomas and noted that she was touched by the shout-out from Swift, thanking her for including her in the company of Thomas. This is not the first time Smith has praised Swift in public, recognizing the pressures that come with being a pop star and the positive influence Swift can have on her fans through her music.
In a 2019 interview, Patti Smith reflected on the scrutiny and challenges that Taylor Swift faces as a pop star, highlighting the impact Swift’s music can have on her fans. Smith commended Swift for her efforts to do something good through her music and acknowledged the influence she has on her audience. Swift has name-dropped several individuals in her latest album, including Smith, Thomas, Charlie Puth, Lucy Dacus, Jack Antonoff, and her past relationships with Joe Alwyn, Matty Healy, and John Mayer. Fans speculate that songs like “Cassandra” may be inspired by Swift’s public feuds, such as the one with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian.
Taylor Swift’s song “Cassandra” is believed to allude to her ongoing conflicts with Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, referencing themes of greed, betrayal, and secrets within the lyrics. Swift’s tumultuous history with West began in 2009 when he infamously interrupted her acceptance speech at the MTV Video Music Awards. The feud resurfaced in 2016 over West’s song “Famous” and a leaked phone call by Kardashian, further straining their relationship. Swift’s relationships with Alwyn, Healy, and Mayer are also thought to be reflected in her music, showcasing her personal experiences and emotions through her songwriting.
Swifties, as Taylor Swift’s fans are known, closely analyze her lyrics and song choices, searching for clues about her personal life and relationships. The singer’s ability to connect with her audience through her music has earned her a dedicated following who appreciate her honesty and vulnerability in her songwriting. By including references to literary figures like Dylan Thomas and contemporary artists like Lucy Dacus, Swift showcases her wide range of influences and inspirations in her music. The intricate details and storytelling in Swift’s songs add depth and complexity to her discography, inviting listeners to explore deeper meanings in her music.
Patti Smith’s memoir, “Just Kids,” chronicles her time living in the Chelsea Hotel with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, reflecting on their creative journey in New York City. Smith’s writing and music have inspired generations of artists, including Taylor Swift, who acknowledges Smith’s influence on her own work. By paying homage to artists like Smith and Thomas in her songs, Swift not only honors their legacy but also connects her music to a broader cultural and artistic tradition. The mutual admiration between Smith and Swift demonstrates the impact that artists can have on each other across different generations and genres, highlighting the enduring power of music and storytelling in bringing people together.
