Taylor Swift's 'this Is Me Trying': Meaning & Analysis

Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into one of Taylor Swift's most vulnerable and relatable songs, "this is me trying." This track, featured on her surprise album folklore, really struck a chord with fans for its raw honesty and poignant lyrics. If you've ever felt like you're just trying your best, even when things don't quite go as planned, this song is definitely for you.

Unpacking the Lyrics: A Journey of Self-Awareness

"this is me trying" isn't just a catchy tune; it's a lyrical masterpiece that explores themes of self-doubt, effort, and the struggle to navigate life's challenges. Taylor paints a picture of someone who's made mistakes, feels lost, but is genuinely putting in the work to improve. The beauty of this song lies in its relatability – we've all been there, right? Feeling like we're stumbling through life, just trying to figure things out.

The Opening Verse: Setting the Scene

The song opens with a sense of reflection and regret. Taylor sings about not measuring up to expectations and feeling like she's let people down. Lines like "I've been having a hard time adjusting, I had the shiniest wheels, now they're rusting" really hit home. It's about recognizing that things aren't perfect and acknowledging the struggle to adapt. It's like admitting, "Okay, I'm not where I thought I'd be, and it's tough."

The Chorus: A Plea for Understanding

The chorus is where the heart of the song truly lies. When Taylor sings, "And it's hard to be at a party when I feel like an open wound," it's a powerful image of vulnerability. The repetition of "this is me trying" serves as a plea for understanding and acceptance. It's like saying, "Hey, I know I'm not perfect, but I'm making an effort. Please see that."

Diving Deeper: Specific Examples and Imagery

Throughout the song, Taylor uses specific examples and vivid imagery to illustrate her struggles. The line "I thought that if I tried harder, I could reverse it" speaks to the common feeling of believing that sheer willpower can fix everything. The mention of Gatsby is particularly poignant. It is referencing the character from The Great Gatsby who tried to rewrite the past. The realization that some things are simply beyond our control is a tough pill to swallow. Also, the lyrics, "They told me all of my cages were mental / So I got wasted to try to forget them" is such a powerful image. She’s pointing out that sometimes, people give you advice that sounds good on the surface, but it’s not actually helpful. It can feel like your struggles are minimized or dismissed.

The Broader Meaning: Connecting with the Human Experience

"this is me trying" resonates so deeply because it taps into universal human experiences. It's a song about:

• Vulnerability: Showing your true self, even when it's not pretty.
• Resilience: The ability to keep going, even when things are tough.
• Self-Acceptance: Learning to accept yourself, flaws and all.
• Empathy: Recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles.

It's a reminder that it's okay to not have all the answers and that simply trying is often enough. Many listeners have shared their personal stories of how the song has helped them feel seen and understood during difficult times.

Why This Song Matters

In a world that often celebrates perfection, "this is me trying" offers a refreshing dose of honesty. It acknowledges the messiness of life and the challenges of navigating our own imperfections. By being so open and vulnerable, Taylor Swift creates a space for listeners to connect with their own struggles and find solace in knowing they're not alone.

Fan Theories and Interpretations

Of course, no Taylor Swift song is complete without a few fan theories! Some fans believe that "this is me trying" is autobiographical, reflecting Taylor's own struggles with fame and public perception. Others interpret the song as a commentary on mental health or addiction. Ultimately, the beauty of the song lies in its open-endedness, allowing listeners to project their own experiences and interpretations onto the lyrics.

How "this is me trying" Fits into folklore

"this is me trying" is a perfect fit for the folklore album, which is characterized by its introspective lyrics and storytelling. The album as a whole explores themes of nostalgia, isolation, and the search for meaning. This song fits right in with its vulnerable and honest portrayal of human struggles.

The Impact of folklore

Folklore marked a significant shift in Taylor Swift's musical style, with its indie folk sound and emphasis on storytelling. The album was a critical and commercial success, earning her numerous awards and solidifying her status as one of the most important songwriters of her generation. "this is me trying" was one of the standout tracks from the album, resonating with listeners for its raw emotion and relatable lyrics.

The Music and Production: Enhancing the Emotion

The music and production of "this is me trying" perfectly complement the song's emotional themes. The understated instrumentation and melancholic melody create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song's gentle acoustic arrangement allows Taylor's vocals to take center stage, conveying the raw emotion of the lyrics. The production choices enhance the song's overall impact, creating a powerful and moving listening experience.

Aaron Dessner's Influence

Aaron Dessner of The National co-wrote and produced "this is me trying," and his influence is evident in the song's indie folk sound. Dessner's production style is characterized by its emphasis on atmosphere and texture, creating a rich and immersive soundscape. His collaboration with Taylor Swift on folklore was a creative triumph, resulting in some of her most critically acclaimed work.

Personal Reflections: Why I Connect with the Song

For me, "this is me trying" is a reminder that it's okay to not be perfect. It's a song about acknowledging your struggles, making an effort, and being kind to yourself along the way. The song's honesty and vulnerability are incredibly relatable, and it's a comfort to know that even someone as successful as Taylor Swift experiences self-doubt and challenges.

Sharing My Own Experiences

I've definitely had moments in my life where I felt like I was just trying to keep my head above water. Whether it's been dealing with personal struggles, career challenges, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, "this is me trying" has been a source of comfort and inspiration. The song reminds me that it's okay to not have all the answers and that simply putting in the effort is often enough.

Conclusion: Finding Solace in Shared Struggles

"this is me trying" is more than just a song; it's a testament to the human spirit. It's a reminder that we're all in this together, navigating the ups and downs of life and doing our best to figure things out. So, the next time you're feeling lost or overwhelmed, put on "this is me trying" and remember that you're not alone. And hey, just by reading this article, you're trying to understand the song better, which is pretty awesome! Keep trying, guys!

This song is a powerful reminder that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a strength. It takes courage to admit when you're struggling, and it's important to be kind to yourself and others along the way. Taylor Swift has created a song that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.