Taylor Swift recently released her highly anticipated album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” which she later revealed is actually a double album called “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology.” This expanded version includes fifteen additional tracks that were marketed as exclusive bonuses for special edition CDs and vinyls but are now available for all listeners. Some critics point out that this tactic is another way for Swift to capitalize on her music, despite her billionaire status.
The first half of “The Tortured Poets Department” is characterized by synth-filled confessional tracks, while the second half attempts to position Swift as a tortured poet who has mastered her craft. The addition of “The Anthology” to the original album has resulted in 31 songs that lack cohesive curation, suggesting a lack of discretion in her work. Swift also released playlists on Apple Music aligned with the stages of grief prior to the album’s release, with songs from “TTPD” organized into categories like denial and anger.
Collaborating with Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner, Swift’s songs on “The Anthology” cover themes of loss, desperation, and destructiveness. The inclusion of modern cultural references like fake news adds a contemporary element but may risk dating the music over time. Some songs, however, fall flat with bland melodies and excessive wordiness that fail to engage the listener. Swift often vacillates between portraying her genuine self and her public persona, which is evident in the album’s lyrics.
Certain tracks on “The Tortured Poets Department” raise questions about Swift’s poetic abilities and honesty. References to subjects like Aristotle and problematic historical periods come across as forced and disconnected from the overall narrative. Revenge and victimhood themes also echo previous feuds like the one with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, suggesting ongoing ruminations on past conflicts. Critics argue that Swift’s exaggerated public interest detracts from her artistic integrity, especially when it comes to personal narratives in her songs.
Ultimately, Swift’s attempt to position herself as a tortured poet falls short due to a lack of authenticity and honesty in her lyrics. The album’s excessive production and lack of concise, impactful storytelling detract from the romanticized idea of being a true poet. While Swift has showcased poetic lyricism in past songs, the self-referential nature of “The Tortured Poets Department” struggles to deliver on its promise of contemplative literary prowess. In the end, the album leaves listeners questioning Swift’s ability to authentically convey the human experience, especially with her immense wealth and resources at play.
