Decoding Taylor Swift's 'this Is Me Trying': Lyrics & Meaning
Hey Swifties! Let's dive deep into one of Taylor Swift's most raw and relatable songs: "this is me trying." This song, which appeared on her surprise album folklore, really resonated with a lot of people because it tackles themes of struggle, effort, and the feeling of not quite measuring up. We're going to break down the lyrics line by line, explore the possible meanings, and see why this track hits so hard. "this is me trying" is more than just a song; it’s a glimpse into the universal human experience of grappling with imperfections and striving for something better, even when it feels like an uphill battle. So, put on your thinking caps and let's get started!
Unpacking the Lyrics: A Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Okay, guys, let's get into the nitty-gritty and dissect these lyrics. Each verse paints a vivid picture, and Taylor's songwriting genius is on full display here. Understanding each line helps us grasp the overall message of the song, so let’s not waste any time and dive in!
Verse 1: Setting the Scene
The song opens with a sense of introspection and a hint of past missteps. The opening lines, "I've been having a hard time adjusting, I had the shiniest wheels, now they're rusting," immediately set the tone. What does it mean? Well, Taylor is talking about how she is struggling to adapt to a new situation, possibly a new phase in her life or career. The "shiniest wheels rusting" is a killer metaphor for lost potential or a decline from a previous state of success or happiness. It suggests that something that was once a source of pride and strength is now deteriorating. This is something so many of us can relate to, right? That feeling of not being able to keep up or maintain a certain level of performance.
She continues, "I didn't know if you'd care if I came, I have a tendency to make it about me." Here, she's revealing a vulnerability and self-awareness. She's unsure if her presence even matters to someone and admits to a tendency to be self-centered. It’s a raw confession, showing her awareness of her flaws and insecurities. This honesty is a hallmark of Taylor's songwriting, making her music so relatable. The verse then closes with the poignant line, "I went to therapy, sat in chairs, and analyzed the way I think until I broke it down. " This line shows a real effort to understand herself and her behaviors. It speaks to the hard work of self-improvement and the painful process of confronting one's own issues. The act of breaking down her thought processes suggests a desire for change and a commitment to personal growth. It’s like she’s saying, “Hey, I know I’m not perfect, but I’m trying to be better.”
Chorus: The Heart of the Matter
The chorus is where the song's central theme is crystallized: "And it's not my fault if I can't fly, I can't fly. I'm not supposed to." These lines speak to a sense of limitation and acceptance. It's an acknowledgement that she might not be capable of achieving everything she sets out to do, and that's okay. It's a powerful statement of self-acceptance and a rejection of unrealistic expectations. The repetition of "I can't fly" emphasizes the feeling of being grounded or limited in some way.
She then sings, "And I wouldn't marry me either, A pathological people-pleaser, Who only wanted you to see her. " These lines are brutally honest and self-critical. She admits that she wouldn't want to be with someone who is constantly trying to please others and seeking validation. It’s a harsh assessment of her own tendencies and a recognition of the negative impact they can have on relationships. It also highlights the struggle with identity and self-worth. She wants to be seen for who she truly is, but her people-pleasing tendencies often get in the way.
The chorus concludes with the title line, "And I'm just trying to tell you that this is me trying." This is the heart of the song. It's a plea for understanding and acceptance. It's a way of saying, "I know I'm not perfect, but I'm making an effort." This line is so relatable because it speaks to the universal desire to be seen and appreciated for our efforts, even when we fall short. It’s a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that it’s okay to struggle as long as we’re trying.
Verse 2: Reflecting on the Past
Verse two digs into past actions and regrets, with Taylor singing, "I was so ahead of the curve, the curve became a sphere, Fell behind all my classmates, and I ended up here." These lines suggest a feeling of having once been successful and ahead of her peers, but then falling behind. The image of the curve becoming a sphere implies that the rules changed, or the game became more complex, and she struggled to keep up. This is a common experience as we navigate life and career – feeling like we’re no longer on the cutting edge or that we’ve lost our competitive edge.
She continues with, "Pouring out my heart to a stranger, But I didn't pour the wine." These lines are intriguing and open to interpretation. Pouring out her heart to a stranger suggests a need for connection and understanding, perhaps seeking solace in someone who doesn't have preconceived notions about her. The line about not pouring the wine could mean she wasn't fully engaged or present in the moment, or it could symbolize a missed opportunity for intimacy or connection. The verse ends with, "I'm alright, I'm alright, I'm alright, I'm alright. " The repetition of "I'm alright" sounds almost like a mantra, as if she's trying to convince herself that she's okay, even though she may not be. It’s a way of putting on a brave face and trying to reassure herself and others that she’s coping, even when she’s struggling.
Bridge: A Moment of Vulnerability
The bridge is a raw and vulnerable moment in the song. Taylor sings, "But at least I'm trying. " It's a simple but powerful statement of resilience and determination. Even in the face of challenges and setbacks, she's still making an effort. This line is so relatable because it speaks to the human spirit's ability to persevere, even when things are tough.
She continues with, "And it's hard to be at a party, When I feel like an open wound." This line vividly conveys the feeling of vulnerability and discomfort in social situations. It's as if she's so sensitive and exposed that any interaction feels painful. This is something many people can relate to, especially when dealing with anxiety or emotional distress. The image of an open wound is a powerful metaphor for emotional pain and vulnerability.
She ends the bridge with, "It's hard to be anywhere these days, When all I want is you, You know I am. " These lines reveal a longing for connection and intimacy. She yearns for someone who understands her and accepts her for who she is. The repetition of "You know I am" emphasizes her sincerity and vulnerability. It's a heartfelt plea for understanding and acceptance.
Themes and Interpretations
Okay, so now that we've gone through the lyrics, let's talk about the bigger picture. What are the main themes in "this is me trying," and what could Taylor be trying to tell us? There are so many themes and interpretations of this song and that's what makes it so popular. Let's explore the possibilities!
The Struggle for Self-Improvement
One of the most prominent themes in "this is me trying" is the struggle for self-improvement. The lyrics show Taylor confronting her flaws and working to become a better person. The lines about going to therapy and analyzing her thoughts demonstrate a commitment to personal growth. This theme resonates with many listeners who are also on a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement. The song acknowledges that the process is not easy, but it's worth the effort.
The Pressure to Meet Expectations
Another theme is the pressure to meet expectations, both internal and external. The lyrics about falling behind her classmates and not being able to fly suggest a feeling of inadequacy and the pressure to achieve certain milestones. This is something that many people can relate to, especially in a society that often values success and achievement above all else. The song challenges these expectations and encourages self-acceptance.
The Importance of Effort
Ultimately, "this is me trying" is a song about the importance of effort. Even when we fall short of our goals, it's important to keep trying. The song celebrates the act of making an effort, even if the results are not always perfect. This is a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that it's okay to struggle as long as we're trying our best. Taylor acknowledges the struggle and emphasizes the importance of putting in the effort, even when the outcome is uncertain. This message resonates deeply with listeners who appreciate the honesty and vulnerability in her lyrics.
Why This Song Resonates
So, why does "this is me trying" hit so hard? What is it about this song that makes it so relatable and meaningful to so many people? Let’s break it down.
Relatability
First and foremost, the song is incredibly relatable. Everyone has experienced the feeling of struggling, falling short, and trying to improve. Taylor's honesty and vulnerability in the lyrics make it easy for listeners to connect with her on a personal level. She's not afraid to admit her flaws and insecurities, which makes her music all the more authentic.
Honesty
The honesty in Taylor's songwriting is another reason why this song resonates. She doesn't sugarcoat her experiences or try to present a perfect image. Instead, she's raw and real, which allows listeners to see themselves in her music. Her willingness to be vulnerable and authentic is what sets her apart and makes her music so powerful.
Hope
Despite the themes of struggle and imperfection, "this is me trying" is ultimately a song of hope. It reminds us that it's okay to struggle as long as we're making an effort. It encourages us to be kind to ourselves and to celebrate our efforts, even when we fall short. This message of hope and resilience is what makes the song so uplifting and inspiring.
Final Thoughts
"this is me trying" is a powerful and relatable song that speaks to the universal human experience of struggling, striving, and trying to be better. Taylor Swift's honest and vulnerable lyrics, combined with the song's message of hope and resilience, make it a standout track on folklore. So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed or inadequate, remember Taylor's words: "this is me trying." Keep pushing, keep striving, and keep being kind to yourself.