Call It What You Want

The opening lyrics of 'Call It What You Want' paint the picture of a significant downfall. Taylor Swift metaphorically describes her once-grand 'castle' being destroyed 'overnight,' suggesting a rapid and jarring change in her life. She admits to being ill-prepared for the conflict she faced ('brought a knife to a gunfight') and acknowledges the betrayal and false accusations thrown her way ('All the liars are calling me one'). Despite these tumultuous events, Taylor conveys a sense of recovery, claiming she's doing 'better than I ever was,' showcasing an emotional ascent from the depths of despair to a place of strength and contentment.

In the chorus, Taylor enters a realm of dream-like romance, painting her lover with metaphors of elegance and detachment from the chaos that surrounds her ('My baby's fit like a daydream'). The emotional journey shifts from the bleakness of her past to the enchantment of her current love. Taylor's love interest appears unaffected by the surrounding fame and frenzy, focusing solely on her, which instills a sense of being cherished and understood ('He loves me like I'm brand new'). This marks a significant shift from isolation to intimate companionship.

The verses deftly weave through Taylor's continuing struggle with her public image and personal relationships. Lyrics like 'All my flowers grew back as thorns' and 'Windows boarded up after the storm' imply emotional defense mechanisms developed in response to ongoing strife. Yet, in the midst of this, Taylor finds warmth and refuge in her private life ('He built a fire just to keep me warm'). The song reveals a quiet rebellion against her critics, as Taylor dismisses their opinions and judgments, finding solace instead in the unwavering support of her lover.

Taylor's vulnerability is further explored in the bridge, where she reveals her desire to display her lover's initial as an emblem of their emotional connection, not possession ('Not because he owns me / But 'cause he really knows me'). She reflects on the sincerity of her relationship, distinguishing it from the superficiality she's faced in the public eye. By soliciting a shared escape ('But would you run away with me?'), Taylor captures a yearning for privacy and unity, reinforcing the emotional depth and trust within her relationship.