Kayln: It’s me — hi!!! I know that for Swifities around the world (ourselves included), 12 am on October 21 was as exciting as “New Year’s Day.” I’m basking in the “Afterglow” of the new release, and, as far as excitement goes, I can’t seem to “Shake it Off.”
Barbara: “You need to calm down” Kayln :). I need to get through this without acting like a “madwoman”. Honestly though, I definitely can relate to you; I am so “enchanted” by this album. October 21 was a night of anticipation, excitement and even some nerves of whether or not Midnight would be “the 1”.
Kayln: With Taylor breaking Spotify’s record for “most streamed album in a day” — I’m still playing “Mastermind” on repeat to celebrate. What are your thoughts on Miss Americana’s tenth studio album, Barbara?
Barbara: Well for starters, I thought Taylor topped herself by creating an album that combined all her previous “Styles”. Midnights screams Lover vibes with a strong pinch of Reputation. It embodies Taylor’s upbeat approach to life while also expressing her bad ass attitude.
Kayln: I totally agree. Midnights is unique from her past work, yet still so incredibly Taylor. I also got major Lover vibes from the music, combined with the lyrical genius of Folklore. I mean, what’s the difference between Taylor Swift and Shakespeare? Her ability to write such intentional, honest and nuanced work produces songs that are truly beyond our “Wildest Dreams”.
Barbara: I totally see that! I also have to say that there’s such a variety in the atmosphere created by each song. “Karma” is a song that one dances to intensely to let loose, “Vigilante Shit” is a song that one listens to passionately when they have been wronged and “Snow on the Beach” is a song that one has playing in the background while reminiscing on past memories.
Kayln: For sure! I have to admit, I, along with tons of other Swifities out there, was a bit surprised by the significant lack of Lana on track 4. But, Taylor makes up for it with the ethereal refrain and track length.
Barbara: I was disappointment by that, too. I think that melding Taylor’s upbeat approach and unconventional lyrics with Lana’s gloomy tone and distinct voice had great potential that was not fully reached. Nevertheless, I can’t wait for my friends and I to listen to “Snow on the Beach” at Northwestern’s beach during “forever winter”. Also, unpopular viewpoint, but although “You’re On Your Own, Kid” could have been more sorrowful, I like Taylor’s tendency to combine vulnerable lyrics with a more upbeat melody.
Kayln: You’re so right. I think that “You’re On Your Own, Kid” is a solid addition to the track 5 repertoire. Of course, we can’t discuss Midnights’ masterpieces without “Anti-Hero”. Taylor called it one of her “favorite songs she’s ever written” — and we can totally see why! Aside from the fact that it’s insanely catchy and perfect for power walking across campus, the phrases really hit home. Like, “I stare directly at the sun but never in the mirror?” … That’s everything. Not to mention, within the phrases, she reveals details about perpetual struggles with self-image that she rarely shares in her music.
Barbara: I completely agree. Anti-Hero is one of many instances in which Taylor gives her audience a taste of her thoughts and emotions by letting herself be vulnerable. Swifties feel more connected to her this way, and I have to say that this level of vulnerability is hard to find in an artist. Her ability to put herself out there with her lyrics and expose her true emotions is one of the reasons I admire her most.
Kayln: Aw, I love that. Now, I know “Anti-Hero” is Taylor’s favorite, but which lyrics resonate with you the most, Barbara?
Barbara: Well, I really enjoyed listening to Taylor’s approach in the song “Karma”. I, too, on some level believe that fate has a way of retaliating. Specifically, I find the lyric: “Karma is the breeze in my hair on the weekend” very amusing but also enlightening. Taylor uses humor to express an interesting standpoint about how one should not let another poor action pull them down, but, instead, they should keep their head held high and know that Karma has their back. Savor in the certainty that the universe will take its course, and people will get what’s coming to them.
Kayln: For me, “Mastermind” is shrouded in lyrical genius. As a perfectionist and self-proclaimed over-thinker, the tendencies Taylor outlines in the song are not unlike moments that I’ve experienced myself. The lyric “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail. … strategy sets the scene for the tale” is something I really resonate with. Her song about trying to control and manipulate every facet of her life inspired me to reflect on my own thoughts and mannerisms.
Barbara: I can totally relate. I think many Northwestern students can (not so proudly) admit that at least in academics they, too, are “Masterminds”. I also have to say “Vigilante Shit” is definitely a confidence boost. It makes young women like us feel empowered with its sexy and assertive influence. Also, I won’t get into this at length but “Question?” has definitely caught the attention of many students at Northwestern. … maybe there is something to this (wink).
Kayln: As much as I love the original 13 Midnights tracks, I’d actually consider myself more of a 3am girly. I adore the upbeat vibes of “Paris” and am living for its “the outfits were terrible — 2003 unbearable” line. Another fave is “High Infidelity”, which goes in a different direction with its slower melody and heartbreaking lyrics. More specifically, the “do I really have to chart the constellations in his eyes” line really hits home. Annnd an honorable mention goes out to 3am’s final track: “Dear Reader.” It closes out the album in a really unique way by breaking the fourth wall between Taylor and her listeners.
Barbara: I’ve also enjoyed listening to the 3am tracks. I, too, especially loved “High Infidelity”. I really appreciate how the lyrics address the imperfection that comes with being in a romantic relationship. The lyric “Dragged my feet down the aisle” is so powerful as it questions conventional thoughts about marriage. It contradicts the idea of your wedding being the bride’s happiest day in a humorous manner.
Kayln: As if the Midnights Mayhem wasn’t enough, TaylorNation fans are saying the “Bejeweled” music video hints at an upcoming release of Speak Now (Taylor’s version). And I completely agree with them! It makes total sense that Taylor would release Speak Now (which features “Back to December”) this holiday season. Who knows? Maybe Swifties will get an early Christmas present in the form of an updated rendition of “Dear John”. Crossing my fingers starting now!
Barbara: I think we all are!
OUR MIDNIGHTS TRACK RANKINGS!!!!!!
Kayln’s List:
- Question…?
- Mastermind
- Anti-Hero
- Vigilante Shit
- Maroon
- You’re On Your Own Kid
- Bejeweled
- Snow On The Beach
- Midnight Rain
- Karma
- Lavender Haze
- Sweet Nothing
- Labyrinth
Barbara’s List:
- Snow On The Beach
- Vigilante Shit
- You’re on Your Own Kid
- Karma
- Question…?
- Anti-Hero
- Lavender Haze
- Mastermind
- Sweet Nothing
- Maroon
- Bejeweled
- Midnight Rain
- Labyrinth