Fact: Taylor Swift My Monologue Song is the first host written monologue on Saturday Night Live. A song and anthem of empowerment and self-reflection.
Taylor Swift is a highly decorated singer-songwriter and has significant degree of creative control over her work. It’s not uncommon for artists who have achieved the longevity of success as her to be given more creative control because she is so well versed in the process. She has specific rituals of how she processes her music that delves deeper into her psyche and why she may be so successful, including writing lyrics on her arm right before she gets on stage.
“My Monologue Song” delves into the complexities of self-reflection and the journey towards finding one’s voice. In the song, Taylor Swift takes the listener on a candid exploration of her inner thoughts and emotions. Through heartfelt lyrics and a captivating melody, she navigates the challenges of self-doubt and the courage it takes to confront insecurities by using a cunning device called, ‘Paralipsis’.
Paralipsis is a rhetorical device where the speaker deliberately emphasizes a point by pretending to pass over it. In other words, it’s when someone says something by stating that they won’t say it. This can create an effect of irony, emphasis, or drawing attention to a particular subject.
Taylor Swift’s use of paralipsis in her SNL “My Monologue Song” is a great example of her clever and witty songwriting style. In this song, she addresses various rumors and controversies that have surrounded her in the media. By using paralipsis, she acknowledges these rumors while simultaneously dismissing them or making light of them.
For example, in the song, Taylor Swift sings lines like:
“Hey, Taylor, saw the guy who dumped you Swore he was gonna marry you Even bought a ring, what-what a thing”
In these lines, she’s referencing her past relationships and the public’s fascination with her love life, but she’s doing it in a way that undercuts the seriousness of the rumors and gossip.
As the song progresses, My Monologue Song lyrics evolves into an anthem of empowerment. Taylor Swift transforms her inner monologue into a call for strength and resilience. Through her music, she invites her listeners to take charge of their lives and believe in the power of their voices.
The song took jabs at Joe Jonas and Kanye West. It also pokes fun at the things people notice about all of her songs. She also hinted to the fact that she could be dating Taylor Lautner from ‘Twilight’. That being said, during the “Monologue Song” she had a hard time seeing because Taylor is nearly blind. Like most people, she wears contacts but said she got disoriented during the taping of the show.
My Monologue Song by Taylor Swift has left a lasting impact on Taylor Swift’s fans worldwide. Many relate to the feelings of vulnerability and self-discovery portrayed in the song. It has become a source of inspiration for those navigating the complexities of growing up and finding their identity in a world that can be unforgiving.
Overall, Taylor Swift’s use of paralipsis in “My Monologue Song” demonstrates her ability to address rumors and controversies while maintaining a sense of agency, humor, and control over her public image. This technique showcases her songwriting prowess and her skillful manipulation of language for both artistic and communicative purposes.
Taylor Swift’s “My Monologue Song” is a poignant testament to the power of self-reflection, vulnerability, and empowerment. Through her music, she encourages her audience to embrace their individuality, face their fears head-on, and discover their true selves. This emotionally charged track serves as a reminder that it’s okay to be vulnerable, as it often leads to personal growth and a deeper understanding of ourselves. As Taylor Swift continues to evolve as an artist, her music continues to inspire and resonate with fans, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of millions around the globe.
References:
Taylor Swift Monologue Song – SNL. (n.d.). Www.youtube.com. https://youtu.be/W2twcSFYlt0
Monologue Song. (n.d.). Taylor Swift Wiki. Retrieved July 19, 2023, from https://taylorswift.fandom.com/wiki/Monologue_Song
Perez, L. (2019, October 3). Taylor Swift’s 7 Most Memorable “SNL” Moments. The Hollywood Reporter. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/snl-taylor-swifts-7-memorable-moments-1240872/
