Taylor Swift's This Is Me Trying: Lyrics & Meaning Explored

Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into one of Taylor Swift's most introspective and heart-wrenching songs, "this is me trying." This track, featured on her surprise album "folklore," really hit different, didn't it? It's not the upbeat, catchy pop we're used to; instead, it's a raw, honest look at feeling lost, making mistakes, and, well, trying to do better. In this article, we're going to dissect the lyrics, explore the possible meanings behind them, and discuss why this song resonates with so many of us. So, grab your headphones, maybe a box of tissues, and let's get started!

Unpacking the Lyrics: A Line-by-Line Analysis

The beauty of Taylor's songwriting lies in her ability to tell stories, and "this is me trying" is a masterclass in narrative. The song unfolds like a confession, with each verse revealing layers of vulnerability and regret. This song really captures feelings of inadequacy and the struggle to meet expectations. Let's break down some key lines:

• "I've been having a hard time adjusting, I had the shiniest wheels, now they're rusting": This opening line sets the tone immediately. It speaks to a sense of disillusionment and a fall from grace. The "shiniest wheels" represent potential and success, now tarnished by time and hardship. It's like saying, "I used to have it all together, but now I'm falling apart."

• "I didn't know if you'd care if I came, I have a tendency to make it about me": Here, we see a glimpse of self-awareness. The narrator acknowledges their flaws, particularly their tendency towards self-centeredness. This line highlights the internal conflict between wanting connection and fearing rejection.

• "And maybe I don't know what's enough, but I know I'm trying": This is the heart of the song. Despite the mistakes and the struggles, there's a genuine effort to improve. It's a plea for understanding and acceptance, even in the face of failure. This line embodies the universal human experience of striving to be better, even when we don't know how.

• "They told me all of my cages were mental, so I got wasted to try to forget them": This lyric delves into the theme of mental health. The "cages" represent internal limitations and anxieties. The narrator turns to unhealthy coping mechanisms, like getting drunk, to escape these mental prisons. It's a raw and honest portrayal of self-destructive behavior.

• "I thought that if I pushed you out, you'd swim right back": This line is about relationships and the push-and-pull dynamic that often exists within them. The narrator admits to pushing someone away, perhaps out of fear or insecurity, but secretly hoping they would fight for the connection.

• "But it just pushed us further apart, now I think I know why": This is a moment of painful realization. The narrator understands that their actions have consequences and that pushing people away only leads to isolation. This is a crucial turning point in the song, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and accountability.

Decoding the Meaning: What is Taylor Trying to Say?

"this is me trying" isn't just a collection of pretty lyrics; it's a profound exploration of mental health, relationships, and the human condition. The song delves into the complexities of dealing with anxiety, depression, and the pressure to succeed.

Mental Health: The song touches on the struggles of dealing with internal battles. The lines about mental cages and using alcohol to cope suggest a deeper struggle with mental well-being. It's a reminder that even those who seem to have it all together can be fighting their own demons. Taylor's willingness to be vulnerable about these issues helps to destigmatize mental health and encourages listeners to seek help if they need it. Remember guys, you're not alone if you're going through something similar.

Relationships: The song explores the complexities of human connection. The narrator's tendency to make things about themselves and their fear of vulnerability create obstacles in their relationships. The act of pushing someone away, hoping they'll return, is a common but ultimately damaging pattern. The song highlights the importance of communication, empathy, and self-awareness in building and maintaining healthy relationships.

The Pressure to Succeed: The opening line about "shiny wheels" rusting speaks to the pressure to maintain a perfect image and achieve constant success. The song acknowledges the disappointment and frustration that come with falling short of expectations. It's a reminder that it's okay to struggle, to make mistakes, and to not always have it all figured out. This aspect of the song resonates particularly well with younger audiences who are constantly bombarded with images of perfection on social media.

Ultimately, "this is me trying" is a song about hope. Despite the mistakes and the struggles, the narrator is still trying. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance. Even when we feel lost and broken, we can still choose to keep going, to keep learning, and to keep striving to be better.

Why This Song Resonates: A Universal Anthem of Imperfection

So, why does "this is me trying" strike such a chord with so many listeners? It's simple: because it's honest. It's a song about imperfection, about the messy reality of being human. In a world that often celebrates success and perfection, Taylor Swift offers a refreshing dose of vulnerability and authenticity. This is what makes her music so relatable and enduring.

We all make mistakes. We all have moments of self-doubt and insecurity. We all struggle to live up to expectations. "this is me trying" acknowledges these struggles and offers a message of hope and acceptance. It reminds us that it's okay to not be perfect, that it's okay to ask for help, and that it's okay to simply be trying. It's a song that empowers us to be kinder to ourselves and to others, and to embrace the journey of self-discovery, with all its ups and downs.

Moreover, the song's minimalist production and melancholic melody amplify its emotional impact. The focus is on the lyrics, allowing listeners to connect with the raw and vulnerable message. It's a song that invites introspection and encourages us to reflect on our own struggles and triumphs.

Fan Theories and Interpretations: What Do You Think?

Of course, no discussion of a Taylor Swift song would be complete without mentioning the fan theories and interpretations that abound online. Some fans believe the song is about Taylor's own struggles with fame and public scrutiny. Others interpret it as a commentary on mental health and the challenges of navigating relationships. Still others see it as a universal anthem of imperfection, resonating with anyone who has ever felt lost or inadequate.

One popular theory suggests that the song is connected to other tracks on "folklore," such as "exile" and "my tears ricochet," creating a cohesive narrative about heartbreak and betrayal. Some fans even speculate that the song is written from the perspective of a fictional character, adding another layer of complexity to its meaning.

Ultimately, the beauty of music is that it's open to interpretation. What "this is me trying" means to one person may be entirely different for another. The important thing is that the song resonates with you on a personal level and provides comfort, inspiration, or simply a sense of connection.

Conclusion: Keep Trying, Swifties!

"this is me trying" is more than just a song; it's a testament to the power of vulnerability, the importance of self-acceptance, and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a reminder that it's okay to struggle, to make mistakes, and to not always have it all figured out. What matters most is that we keep trying. So, the next time you're feeling lost or overwhelmed, put on "this is me trying," and remember that you're not alone. We're all in this together, Swifties. Keep trying, keep learning, and keep growing. And never forget that you are loved and appreciated, just as you are.

So, what are your thoughts on "this is me trying"? How does it resonate with you? Share your interpretations and experiences in the comments below! Let's continue the conversation and support each other on this journey of self-discovery.

And remember, always be kind to yourself and to others. You never know what someone else might be going through.

Okay, Swifties, until next time!