Analyzing Taylor Swift's Lyric Connections in 'So Long, London' from 'The Tortured Poets Department'

Taylor Swift is not ready to leave behind her past music, even as she bids farewell to England in her song "So Long, London." This track, believed to be inspired by her breakup with Joe Alwyn, can be found as the fifth song on her latest album, The Tortured Poets Department. Released on Friday, April 19, the album showcases Swift, 34, drawing poetic connections to her previous works.

She sings about leaving behind everything she knew and being left alone at a house near Hampstead Heath in London. She mentions stopping CPR because it was futile, as the spirit had already departed and they would never reunite. Swift, who once lived in London with the 33-year-old actor and highlighted their experiences in her song "London Boy," also touched on similar themes in her 2022 track "You're Losing Me."

Swift previously shared in the Midnights bonus track how she used to admire the room's light, but now she finds herself sitting in darkness, questioning if it's time. She expresses feeling like her heart has lost its rhythm and pulse, all because she feels like she's drifting away from her loved one.

In another verse from "So Long, London," Swift talks about bringing color back to her face and feeling furious because she once cherished the place. This line echoes her earlier sentiments in "You're Losing Me" when she described feeling gray and unwell as her love refused to acknowledge their issues.

Breaking Down Taylor Swift Lyric Parallels in Tortured Poets Department Song So Long London 2

Taylor Swift Kevin Kane/WireImage

In Swift's song "So Long, London," she mentions another Midnights song "Glitch" in the chorus by singing "Stitches undone."

The Grammy winner, in her 2022 track, sings about fastening herself with a stitch just five seconds later, implying that she was trying to hold herself together as the relationship was ending.

The parallels between Taylor Swift's songs don't end with "Midnights." She also referred to her album "Lover," released in 2019, which was heavily influenced by her life in London with Joe Alwyn. In the song, she mentions "fairy lights through the mist," reminiscent of the lyrics "We could leave the Christmas lights up 'til January" from the track "Lover." This song, once considered one of her most romantic, surprised fans when it appeared on her Apple Music playlist focused on relationship delusions.

In her latest track, Swift talks about pulling her then-partner closer as "he was driftin' away," a phrase she previously used in her 2009 duet with Boys Like Girls, "Two Is Better Than One." Additionally, she mentions a "love affair" in "So Long, London," which brings to mind the line "Did the love affair maim you too?" from the song "All Too Well."

What is the top song on Taylor Swift's album 'The Tortured Poets Department?'

Swift has not officially revealed the muses behind TTPD, but it is speculated that ex Matty Healy and current boyfriend Travis Kelce may have inspired some tracks. Despite this, Swift has mentioned that she has left behind the emotional turmoil depicted in the lyrics.

The author has moved on from this chapter of their life, as Swift mentioned in a recent Instagram post. They emphasized that there is no need for revenge or settling scores once wounds have healed.

The Tortured Poets Department is available for purchase now.

Editor's P/S:

Taylor Swift's latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department," showcases her poetic prowess and lyrical depth. The album is a reflection of her past relationships and experiences, with many of the songs drawing parallels to her previous works. "So Long, London," believed to be inspired by her breakup with Joe Alwyn, is a poignant and heartfelt track that encapsulates the emotions of loss and heartbreak.

Swift's ability to weave together themes and imagery from her earlier songs is a testament to her artistry. The connections between "So Long, London" and "Midnights," "Lover," and even her 2009 duet with Boys Like Girls demonstrate her intricate storytelling abilities. Through her music, Swift explores the complexities of relationships, the pain of separation, and the resilience of the human spirit. "The Tortured Poets Department" is a testament to Swift's enduring talent and her ability to connect with her fans on a deep level through her personal and evocative lyrics.