Reassessing Taylor Swift's Latest Album: Reflecting on My Initial Judgement

Twenty-four hours just isn't sufficient.

When Taylor Swift released her 11th studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," last Friday, critics were quick to express disappointment and criticize the "Midnights" sequel as a letdown.

The New York Times review mentioned that Swift "could use an editor," suggesting that her 31-track double album was too long. The New Yorker also criticized the album for being lengthy and familiar, hinting that Swift's partnership with producer Jack Antonoff may have reached its limit. Rolling Stone added to the criticism, noting that Swift and Antonoff seemed to be going through the motions with their collaboration.

While there were some positive reviews, the album did not impress a significant number of critics. Some wondered if Swift's success as a pop star was coming to an end. After facing a wave of harsh criticism, it seemed like Swift's future in the music industry was uncertain.

Last Friday afternoon, I decided to check out "The Tortured Poets Department" after reading some reviews. As I watched the 120 minutes of personal stories and synth-pop, I initially agreed with the critics that it felt a bit tired and didn't impress me as a long-time fan of Swift's music.

However, after a week of spending more time with the album, carefully exploring its subtleties and nuances, my opinion has completely changed. I now believe that it is one of Swift's best works to date. It seems that others have also gone through a similar experience, initially feeling lukewarm about the album but eventually realizing its true brilliance after giving it a few listens.

Swift's album "Tortured Poets" with its 31 tracks requires more than just a day to fully grasp. It's not something that can be quickly consumed like a TikTok video.

In today's fast-paced world, where information is consumed in short bursts, it can be challenging to ask the public to dedicate time and attention to a lengthy album like Swift's. Social media platforms have trained us to seek instant gratification, often swiping away anything that doesn't immediately captivate us.

Swift's latest work requires more time to truly understand. It's not something to rush through like fast food; it's more like a full-course meal that invites you to sit down, pay attention, and savor every bite. Take in the different flavors and ingredients meant to excite your taste buds, and then take a moment to digest and reflect on the whole experience.

It's impossible to fully appreciate the array of emotions - from heartbreak to triumph - that Swift skillfully weaves into two hours of captivating storytelling. Swift's strength lies in her intricate, multi-layered narratives that take listeners on a complex journey that can't be fully grasped with just a quick listen.

Unfortunately, the current way of doing things doesn't align with this. Nowadays, the online world expects quick reactions and responses. People are encouraged to form opinions instantly, share them on social media, and engage in group discussions. There's no time to pause. Taking a moment to enjoy the little things may result in falling behind.

This leaves very little space for truly immersing oneself in the music, dedicating the necessary time to it, and allowing it to sink in. However, this is essential in order to fully appreciate the essence of "Tortured Poets."

Those who swiftly write the album off in search of instant satisfaction will not. Those who give it the chance will likely come to love it – as have I.

Editor's P/S:

The article's critique of "The Tortured Poets Department" highlights the tension between the demands of today's media landscape and the complexities of artistic works that require time and engagement. In an era of quick consumption and instant gratification, Swift's 31-track album challenges the norm. It is not a mere product to be hastily consumed; rather, it is a tapestry of emotions and narratives that invite deep listening and reflection.

This disconnect between our fast-paced culture and the inherent nature of the album has led to polarizing reviews. While some dismissed it as overly long and familiar, others have come to appreciate its depth and nuances after repeated listens. The article suggests that critics, influenced by the need for immediate reactions, may have been too quick to judge the album's worth. It emphasizes the importance of fostering a critical culture that embraces the slow, meditative consumption of art, where patience and immersion are crucial for a richer understanding and appreciation.