The owner of The Black Dog pub hinted that Joe Alwyn is a regular customer after Taylor Swift released a song about an ex frequenting the London establishment. Lily Bottomley revealed that they have a blond regular who visits the pub often, insinuating that it could be Alwyn. Since the release of Swift’s album featuring a song about The Black Dog, the pub has seen an increase in foot traffic and attention, which they have embraced with excitement.
Bottomley shared that Swift had previously visited The Black Dog for a drink, though it remains unclear if it was with Alwyn. Taking advantage of the newfound popularity, the pub now offers Swift-themed cocktails and food options. They have been playing the album non-stop at the pub and have had fans participate in singalongs, creating an enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere for Swift’s fans.
In her breakup track, Swift sings about an unnamed ex who frequents The Black Dog and forgets to turn off his phone location, causing her heartache. The lyrics describe watching the ex walk into the bar and being pierced with new heartache, hinting at the emotional toll of seeing them there. Swift also appears to refer to Alwyn in other songs on the album, alluding to their past relationship and eventual breakup in 2023.
Aside from Alwyn, Swift also seemingly references her ex Matty Healy from The 1975 in the album, suggesting that he needed drugs more than he needed her. She sings about being able to fix him and mentions other individuals in her life during their brief relationship. Swifties speculate that she also alludes to her romance with Travis Kelce, referencing touchdowns and winning streaks in her song “The Alchemy,” adding layers of complexity to the album’s storytelling and personal reflections.
The relationship between Swift and Alwyn began in 2017 but ended in 2023, leading to the emotional content of many songs on the album. Swift seems to take jabs at her past relationships, including her time in London with Alwyn and her short-lived romance with Healy. The album delves into themes of heartbreak, growth, and reflection on past loves, showcasing Swift’s songwriting prowess and ability to connect with her audience on a personal and emotional level. The Black Dog pub has become a focal point for fans to gather and celebrate Swift’s music, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere for all who visit.
